Infectious Diseases and Immune Response

These flashcards cover key concepts related to infectious diseases and the body's immune response as outlined in the lecture notes.

Pathogen

Disease-causing organisms including microorganisms such as viruses and parasites.

Vector

Biological or physical molecules that carry agents to hosts, aiding in pathogen transmission.

Incubation Period

The time period between initial exposure to a pathogen and the appearance of symptoms.

Prodromal Stage

The stage where general nonspecific symptoms, like fatigue and low-grade fever, begin to appear.

Macrophages

Immune cells that engulf and destroy pathogens to prevent further infection.

Neutrophils

Circulating immune cells that move to the site of injury to destroy pathogens.

Chemotaxis

The movement of immune cells to an injury site in response to chemical signals.

Diapedesis

The process where neutrophils squeeze through endothelial gaps to reach the site of injury.

Phagocytosis

The process by which neutrophils engulf and digest bacteria.

NSAIDs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, which inhibit inflammation.