Immunotherapy in Infectious Diseases

Immunotherapy in Infectious Diseases refers to the use of immune-based therapies to treat infections by modulating, enhancing, or restoring the immune system’s ability to fight off pathogens. Traditionally, infectious diseases have been managed with antibiotics, antivirals, and vaccines. However, with the emergence of drug-resistant pathogens, limitations of conventional therapies, and an increased understanding of the immune system, immunotherapy has become a promising alternative or adjunct in the treatment of infections.

Immunotherapy works by either boosting the body’s natural immune response or introducing external components (e.g., antibodies, cytokines, or immune cells) to target specific pathogens. It can be used in combination with other treatments like antibiotics, antivirals, or vaccines, and is being explored for various infections, including bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic diseases.

  • Types of Immunotherapies Used in Infectious Diseases:
    • Monoclonal Antibodies (mAbs)
    • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
    • Cytokine Therapy
    • Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell (CAR-T) Therapy