Word: Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Disease (SCID)
Definition:Severe combined immunodeficiency disease, often shortened to SCID, is a medical condition that a person is born with. It affects the immune system, which is the body's way of fighting off infections and diseases. In children with SCID, the immune system does not work properly because of changes (mutations) in specific genes. This makes them very vulnerable (sensitive) to infections, and without treatment, it can be very dangerous, often leading to death within the first couple of years of life.
Usage Instructions: - You can use the term "severe combined immunodeficiency disease" when discussing medical conditions, especially in the context of genetics or childhood illnesses. - It is often used in conversations between healthcare professionals and when talking to parents or families about children's health.
Example: - "The doctor explained that severe combined immunodeficiency disease means the child has a very weak immune system and needs special treatment to stay healthy."
Advanced Usage: - In medical literature or discussions, you might find references to SCID when discussing gene therapy or immunology. - It can also be mentioned in contexts of newborn screening, where babies are tested for diseases like SCID shortly after birth.
Word Variants: - SCID (abbreviation): This is the shortened form of "severe combined immunodeficiency disease" that is often used in medical contexts. - Immunodeficiency: This term refers to a state where the immune system's ability to fight infections is compromised or entirely absent.
Different Meanings: - While "immunodeficiency" refers to a weakened immune system in general, "severe combined" emphasizes that both parts of the immune system (T cells and B cells) are affected.
Synonyms: - None that are exact, but you might hear related terms like "genetic immunodeficiency" or "primary immunodeficiency," which refer to similar but not identical conditions.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs related to SCID, but you can use general health-related phrases like "to come down with" (to become sick) or "to fight off" (to resist or overcome an illness).
Remember, SCID is a serious condition, and understanding the term can help in discussions about health and medical care.