Agammaglobulinemia

/eɪɡæməɡlɒbjʊlɪˈniːmiə/ noun

Definition

A rare genetic condition where a person's body cannot produce certain proteins called immunoglobulins (antibodies) that fight infections.

Etymology

From Greek 'a-' (without) + 'gamma' (the Greek letter designating a type of protein) + 'globulin' (a protein) + 'emia' (condition of the blood). The term literally means 'absence of gamma globulins in the blood.'

Kelly Says

People with agammaglobulinemia are extremely vulnerable to infections that healthy people fight off easily—their immune system is like a castle without guards! This condition helped scientists discover the crucial role antibodies play in protecting us from disease.

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