What phenomenon refers to a reduction in the ability of the body to fight infections?

Immunosuppression refers to a state in which the immune system's ability to respond to pathogens, foreign substances, and other threats is diminished. This reduction can be caused by various factors, including certain medical conditions, medications (such as immunosuppressive drugs used in organ transplant recipients), or diseases that directly impact immune function, such as HIV/AIDS.

When immunosuppression occurs, the body's defenses weakened, leading to an increased risk of infections and a higher likelihood of infections becoming more severe. Understanding immunosuppression is crucial for EMTs because it helps them recognize patients who may be more vulnerable to infectious diseases and may require special care or consideration in treatment.

Inflammation is a protective response by the body to injury or infection, not a reduction in fight capacity. Cellular response generally refers to the activation of immune cells in response to pathogens. Allergic reactions involve the immune system but represent an inappropriate response to harmless substances rather than a weakened immune state.