IMPAIRED IMMUNE FUNCTION - This describes an immune system that is functioning below normal. This makes someone more susceptible to viral, fungal, or bacterial infections. Those who can be considered to be immunocompromised include AIDS patients (or HIV positive), diabetics, transplant patients (on immunosuppressives), and those who are receiving chemotherapy for cancer. A number of other conditions are also associated with decreased immunity. These conditions include most forms of cancer (other than skin cancer), sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, those who do not have a spleen, end stage kidney disease (dialysis) patients, and those who have been taking corticosteroids on a frequent basis by pill or injection within the last year. Patients with severe liver, lung, or heart disease may also have immune systems with a poor ability to respond adequately to an infection or stress.