A person’s immune status depends on their overall health: proper nutrition and avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke and chemicals whenever possible. In early childhood, the vaccines and immunizations recommended in the vaccination schedule help build a competent immune system.

Recommendations

In primary immunodeficiencies, early detection is important, usually indicated by the presence of frequent infectious diseases. Secondary immunodeficiencies occur during treatment for neoplasms or in transplant patients who must take lifelong immunosuppressive medication.

In autoimmune diseases, it is essential to follow the prescribed medication, often for life, and to avoid excessive cold and sun exposure, which can trigger disease manifestations. To maintain the functionality of joints and muscles, following specific rehabilitation guidelines is important.

Treatment

In immune deficiency, administering immunoglobulins (blood proteins responsible for our defense) can play an important role. When the deficiency affects immune cells, immunoglobulins are not effective; in such cases, antibiotics can prevent or reduce infections.

In diseases caused by excessive or poorly regulated immune responses, anti-inflammatory drugs and medications that modulate immunity are used, such as corticosteroids and biologics, which block specific inflammatory pathways. Other drugs may also have beneficial effects through less well-understood mechanisms, such as some medications used to treat malaria.

What to keep in mind after auricular reconstruction

The following tips can help patients recover after auricular reconstruction:

• It is recommended to sleep with the head elevated, avoiding pressure on the operated area.
• Wound care with an antiseptic solution is advised, keeping the area clean and dry at all times.
• Avoid getting the area wet during daily hygiene until your medical team gives permission.
• Keep the area covered to prevent bumps or trauma.
• It is very important to start moving gradually after surgery, avoiding pressure or impact on the operated area.
• Early respiratory physiotherapy exercises using the incentive spirometer provided by the hospital are beneficial.
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure to the operated area.
• If signs of infection appear (swelling, fever, redness, warmth, or purulent discharge), bleeding, necrosis, or new/increasing pain, go to the emergency room immediately.
• A balanced diet is recommended, with increased protein intake if possible, to support tissue regeneration.
• The prescribed treatment will be included in the medical discharge report, usually consisting of analgesics (for pain control) and antibiotics (to prevent infection).
• Patients can resume normal life after surgery, but for the first few months, physical exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided.
• Smoking and other toxic substances are strictly discouraged, as they can impair wound healing.