Overview of Immune System and Disorders

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the immune system and associated disorders for exam preparation.

Immune System

A complex network of cells and proteins that defends the body against infection.

Innate Immunity

The nonspecific first line of defense against pathogens, involving physical and chemical barriers.

Adaptive Immunity

The specific immune response developed after exposure to antigens, involving T and B lymphocytes.

Antigen

A substance that the immune system recognizes as foreign and that elicits an immune response.

Immunodeficiency

A condition in which the immune system's ability to fight infections is compromised or entirely absent.

Autoimmunity

A condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells.

Cytokines

Chemical signals produced by white blood cells that regulate and coordinate the immune response.

Natural Killer Cells

A type of granular lymphocytes that destroy tumor cells and cells infected with viruses.

B Cell Activation

The process by which B lymphocytes recognize antigens, become activated, and differentiate into plasma cells.

IgE

A type of immunoglobulin associated with allergic reactions and found in very low concentrations in blood.

Anaphylaxis

A severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

Hypersensitivity

An exaggerated immune response to a harmless substance, classified into four types.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

An autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of anti-nuclear antibodies and multisystem involvement.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

A chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects joints, causing inflammation and pain.

Sjögren's Syndrome

An autoimmune condition characterized by dry eyes and mouth due to the immunological destruction of glands.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

A virus that attacks CD4 (T helper) cells, leading to progressive immune system failure.

Opportunistic Infections

Infections that occur more frequently and are more severe in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

A preventive treatment using antiretroviral medication for individuals at high risk of HIV infection.