immunosuppression

Definition

Deliberate or disease-induced reduction of immune system activity. Intentionally disabling your body's security system, usually to prevent organ rejection or treat autoimmune diseases.

Example Usage

Post-transplant immunosuppression was carefully balanced to prevent rejection while minimizing infection risk.

Origin

From Latin 'immunis' (exempt) and 'supprimere' (to press down)

Fun Fact

Transplant recipients on immunosuppression have higher cancer rates because their immune system can't surveillance and destroy abnormal cells as effectively.

Source: Transplant medicine and immunology terminology

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