Physiologic basis of host susceptibility.
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.
D000917:Antibody Formation; D006801:Humans; D007111:Immunity, Cellular; D007113:Immunity, Innate; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007232:Infant, Newborn, Diseases / Q000276:immunology*; D007239:Infections / Q000276:immunology*