Pathogens

Innate Immune Response

The body's first line of defense against pathogens, which is non-specific and includes physical, chemical, and cellular defenses.

Adaptive Immune Response

A specific immune response that involves lymphocytes (B cells and T cells) and has a memory component for more effective responses upon re-exposure.

Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns (PAMPs)

Common markers recognized by the innate immune response to identify pathogens.

Cytotoxic T cells

A type of T cell that kills virus-infected cells during the adaptive immune response.

Phagocytes

Cells, like macrophages and neutrophils, that engulf and destroy pathogens as part of the innate immune response.

Peptidoglycan

A structural component of bacterial cell walls, targeted by certain antibiotics.

Opportunistic Infections

Infections that occur when the immune system is weakened, often leading to serious health complications.

Dysuria

Painful or difficulty urination, commonly associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP)

An opportunistic infection commonly seen in patients with HIV/AIDS, characterized by a type of pneumonia.

Sepsis

The body's extreme response to infection, leading to systemic inflammation and potentially organ failure.

Antibodies

Proteins produced by B cells that target and neutralize pathogens.

Beta-lactamases

Enzymes produced by some bacteria that confer resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics.

Chitin

A component of fungal cell walls that can be targeted by antifungal drugs.

Fungal Infections

Infections primarily involving fungi, with the innate immune response being crucial for initial defense.

Vaccination

A strategy to break the chain of infection by providing immunity against specific pathogens.

Clinical Manifestations

The observable symptoms and signs associated with an infectious process; may include fever, chills, and localized pain.

Meningitis Symptoms

Severe headache, fever, neck stiffness, photophobia, and altered mental status associated with meningitis.

Treponema pallidum

The bacterium that causes syphilis.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae

The bacterium responsible for gonorrhea.

Physical Barriers in Innate Immunity

Includes skin and mucous membranes that act as the first line of defense against pathogens.

Sterilization and Disinfection

Processes aimed at killing or removing pathogens from surfaces to break the chain of infection.