Abstract
In a number of diseases, deficiencies in either immunologic mechanisms or phagocytic activity have been clearly associated with increased susceptibility to infection. A variety of laboratory tests can help in defining these conditions. To use the tests effectively, the physician must know the clinical manifestations of such defects as impaired antibody production, impaired delayed hypersensitivity, combined deficiency of immunoglobulin and cellular immunity, and phagocytic deficiency