In ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) patients, several immunological abnormalities are observed, which include:
- Lymphopenia: A reduction in the number of lymphocytes, which are crucial for the immune response.
- Impaired Cellular and Humoral Immunity: Dysfunction in both cellular immunity (T cells) and humoral immunity (B cells) due to abnormal T, B, and NK cells.
- Low Total Immunoglobulin Levels: Hypogammaglobulinemia, with low levels of IgG, IgA, or IgM.
- Defective Antibody Response: Particularly to polysaccharide antigens, leading to recurrent infections.
- Decreased Peripheral Lymphoid Tissue: Reduced lymphoid tissue affects the immune system's ability to mount an effective response.
- Increased Susceptibility to Infections: Predisposition to bacterial infections, especially of the respiratory tract.
- Autoimmune Disorders: An increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
- Chromosomal Instability: Which can affect the function of immune cells.
- Immunoglobulin Deficiencies: Commonly affecting IgG4, IgA, IgG2, IgE, and IgG.
These abnormalities contribute to the immunodeficiency observed in A-T patients, leading to increased susceptibility to infections and complications. The images provided in the search results further illustrate the clinical manifestations and immunological aspects of ataxia-telangiectasia. For more detailed information, refer to the sources such as PubMed Central, the Immune Deficiency Foundation, and ScienceDirect.