With NK cell deficiency, which organism is commonly associated with recurrent infections?

Individuals with NK (natural killer) cell deficiency are particularly vulnerable to viral infections, especially those caused by herpes viruses. This susceptibility arises because natural killer cells play a crucial role in the innate immune response, particularly in targeting and eliminating virus-infected cells and tumor cells. They are essential for controlling the spread of viral infections early on. Herpes viruses, such as cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and others, can exploit the absence or dysfunction of NK cells, leading to recurrent infections and complications.

While the other organisms listed can cause infections, they are not specifically associated with NK cell deficiency in the same way herpes viruses are. For instance, Staphylococcus aureus is a common bacterium responsible for skin and soft tissue infections, while Escherichia coli is often involved in gastrointestinal and urinary tract infections, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis is known for causing tuberculosis. However, these pathogens are more closely linked to deficiencies in other components of the immune system rather than specifically to NK cell dysfunction. Therefore, herpes viruses stand out as the most indicative pathogen in the context of NK cell deficiency.