ch 16

Inflammation

A local response to pathogens consisting of increased blood flow and macrophages attacking the pathogens.

Antigen

A chemical on the cell membrane of an organism that causes an immune system to produce antibodies to attack it.

T Cell

A white blood cell that may attack a pathogen, attack an infected body cell, or activate B Cells.

B Cell

A white blood cell that produces antibodies.

Antibody

A protein that reacts against specific antigens.

Active Immunity

A fast acting defense against a pathogen caused by a previous infection by that same pathogen.

Passive Immunity

An introduction of antibodies from outside the body to help defend against a type of pathogen.

Central Nervous System

The part of the nervous system composed of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System

The portion of the nervous system that does not include the brain and the spinal cord.

Cerebrum

The largest portion of the brain, consisting of two dome-shaped hemispheres that control conscious thinking.

Cerebellum

The portion of the brain that helps with motor control.

Brain Stem

The portion of the brain that helps control breathing, heartbeat, blood pressure, coughing, sneezing, and swallowing.

Spinal Cord

The part of the central nervous system that extends down the back and relays impulses between the brain and the rest of the body.

Pupil

The opening in the center of the iris that allows light to enter the eye.

Retina

The inner layer of the eye containing receptors that are sensitive to light.

Eardrum

The membrane that stretches over the opening to the middle ear and conducts vibrations to the hammer.

Cochlea

The coiled tubular structure where sound vibrations are changed into nerve impulses.