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Protein-energy malnutrition and immunological responses
1Department of Pediatrics, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada.
The Journal of Nutrition
|March 1, 1992
Summary
Nutritional deficiencies, particularly protein-energy malnutrition, impair immune function. This increases susceptibility to infections, highlighting the critical link between nutrition and immunity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Nutritional Science
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Historical accounts suggest links between famine and epidemics.
- Epidemiologic studies confirm nutritional deficiencies increase infectious disease risk.
Observation:
- Protein-energy malnutrition affects immunocompetence.
- Observed lymphoid tissue atrophy, particularly in the thymus.
Findings:
- Reduced T cells (including T helper cells) and impaired immune responses.
- Decreased antibody affinity, complement activity, and phagocyte function.
Implications:
- Understanding malnutrition's impact on immunity has clinical applications.
- Highlights the need for nutritional support in managing infectious diseases.
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