What does being immunocompromised mean?

Being immunocompromised means that an individual has an impaired immune system, making them more susceptible to infections and diseases. This impairment can be due to various factors, including certain medical conditions, treatments (like chemotherapy), or medications that suppress the immune response. Consequently, these individuals may find it more challenging to fight off infections, which can lead to more severe health issues compared to those with a healthy, intact immune system.

In contrast, the other options relate to an immune system that functions well or is overactive, which doesn't accurately describe an immunocompromised state. A robust immune system indicates strong defense mechanisms against pathogens, an autoimmune disorder pertains to a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells, and high resistance to infections signifies a well-functioning immune response, which is the opposite of being immunocompromised. Thus, having an impaired immune system is the correct understanding of what it means to be immunocompromised.