Which statement by a patient suggests a potential immunodeficiency disorder?

The statement about having the spleen removed years ago is significant in the context of immunodeficiency disorders. The spleen plays an important role in the immune system, particularly in fighting certain types of bacterial infections and clearing pathogens from the bloodstream. When the spleen is removed, a person can be at higher risk for infections, especially those caused by encapsulated bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis. This condition, known as functional asplenia, puts individuals at increased risk for severe infections, leading to a potential immunodeficiency state.

The other options do not indicate similar risks for immunodeficiency. For instance, taking baby aspirin relates more to cardiovascular health, while consuming sufficient protein from eggs or meat suggests a balanced diet, which generally supports immune health. The mention of a previous chest x-ray due to walking pneumonia indicates a current or recent issue but does not inherently suggest a chronic immunodeficiency disorder. Therefore, the removal of the spleen is clearly linked to an increased risk of immune system compromise, making that statement the most indicative of a potential immunodeficiency disorder.