D81.6: Major histocompatibility complex class I deficiency

Some of your immune cells are not working properly.

The immune system protects the body from pathogens and foreign substances. The immune system can also destroy cells in the body that have pathologically changed. The body's immune system is made up of different types of immune cells. Some immune cells can destroy pathogens or foreign bodies themselves. Other immune cells produce certain antibodies.

If certain immune cells are not working properly, there may not be enough protection against pathogens. The pathogens are then able to repeatedly cause respiratory illnesses. Over time, too, the bronchia may expand. The air is breathed in through the mouth or nose. From there the air goes into the trachea via the larynx. At the end of the windpipe are two bronchial tubes (or bronchi) branching away from it. The bronchial tubes run into the lungs. What is more, the bronchial tubes divide into even smaller branches. The larynx, the trachea, the bronchia and the lungs are part of the lower airways. If your bronchia expand, you will sometimes cough up a lot of phlegm.

The skin may also undergo changes. These include open wounds on the arms, legs or face. It is also possible that you will have few or no symptoms at all with this condition.

The disease is hereditary. Other family members may also be affected.