D76.2: Haemophagocytic syndrome, infection-associated

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.

Some of your immune cells are overactive. These immune cells are then producing a large amount of messengers. The messengers are causing inflammation in your body.

The condition makes you seriously ill. A persistent high temperature is typical. You may also get a rash on your skin. The condition can cause damage to various tissues and organs in the body. Your liver, spleen and lymph nodes may become enlarged. The liver is an important organ on the top right of the abdomen. For example, it helps with blood clotting and detoxifying the body. Nutrients from food are processed in the liver. The spleen is on the top left side of the abdomen. Old blood cells are broken down in the spleen. Furthermore, defense cells are stored. If the defense cells are needed, they are then released from the spleen into the blood. The lymph nodes are small bean-shaped objects. They are found throughout the body. Lymph nodes filter the tissue fluid. They are part of the defense system.

You have been infected with specific pathogens. This triggered the illness.