immunocompromised
Weakened Immune System
Plain-language definition
Reduced ability to fight infections, from disease (HIV), medications (chemotherapy), or transplant. Raises risk of opportunistic eye infections.
Where this term comes up
“The most commonly recognized is opportunistic infectious retinitis, particularly cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis, which occurs in severely immunocompromised patients.”
Publication · Bilateral Progressive Vision Loss in Noninfectious HIV Retinopathy without Infectious Retinitis
“Cytomegalovirus (CMV) - retinitis in immunocompromised patients”
Condition · Uveitis (Iritis)
“Valacyclovir 1 g three times daily for 7 days is the labeled herpes zoster regimen; many ophthalmologists extend treatment to 10 days for HZO, especially with eye involvement, in older patients, or in immunocompromised hosts”
Medication · Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
- Category
- Immune system term
- Also written as
- No alternate forms listed.
Immunology terms describe immune-system activity, antibodies, inflammation, or autoimmune processes that can affect the eyes and nerves.
Related glossary terms
- atypical
Unusual Presentation
- cornea
Clear Front Window
- immunosuppressive
Immune System Suppression
- antiviral
Virus-Fighting Drug
- epithelium
Surface Cell Layer
- trifluridine
Antiviral Eye Drop
A note on medical context
A glossary definition can explain a word, but it cannot tell you whether a symptom or test result is serious. If this term came from an article, use the full article and your clinician's guidance for context.