title: Physiologic basis of host susceptibility.
abstract: Host defense mechanisms are reviewed with examination of aspects particular to the increased susceptibility found in neonates. Three main factors contributing to increased susceptibility are identified: inexperienced immune system, immature phagocytosis, and an inability to localize infection.
mesh_terms: D000917:Antibody Formation; D006801:Humans; D007111:Immunity, Cellular; D007113:Immunity, Innate; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007232:Infant, Newborn, Diseases / Q000276:immunology*; D007239:Infections / Q000276:immunology*