Immunodeficiency in aging.

Immune senescence is a multifaceted physiological syndrome of decline in the mechanisms of defence. Cofactors such as age-related associated diseases and malnutrition frequently seen in this category of the population, severely worsen the defect leading to the "immune compromised host" status. Frequency, morbidity and mortality of infections are undoubtedly largely influenced by such parameters. To date, adequate risk assessment and preventive medicine are the best approach to improve the chances of the elderly patient.