Ch. 11 Disorders of the Immune System

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the disorders of the immune system, including types of immunity, immune responses, and specific disorders.

Innate Immunity

Nonspecific immune response that includes physical and chemical barriers such as skin and enzymes in tears.

Cytokines

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

Natural Killer (NK) Cells

Granular lymphocytes that destroy tumor cells and virus-infected cells.

Adaptive Immunity

Acquired immune response involving specific recognition of pathogens and the formation of memory cells.

T Cells

Lymphocytes responsible for cell-mediated immunity.

B Cells

Lymphocytes responsible for antibody-mediated immunity.

Antigen-Presenting Cells (APCs)

Cells like macrophages and dendritic cells that present antigens to activate T cells.

Plasma Cells

Activated B cells that produce antibodies.

Immunoglobulins (Igs)

Antibodies produced by B cells, with five subtypes: IgM, IgG, IgA, IgD, IgE.

Active Acquired Immunity

Immunity obtained through exposure to antigen via illness or vaccination.

Passive Acquired Immunity

Immunity gained through the transfer of premade antibodies.

Vaccines

Formulations containing weakened pathogens to stimulate an immune response.

Type I Hypersensitivity

Immediate hypersensitivity reaction known as allergy, mediated by IgE.

Anaphylaxis

Severe, life-threatening allergic response requiring immediate medical attention.

Type II Hypersensitivity

Cytotoxic hypersensitivity where IgM and IgG antibodies attack antigens on cell surfaces.

Type III Hypersensitivity

Reactions caused by antigen-antibody complexes deposited in tissues.

Type IV Hypersensitivity

Delayed T cell-mediated immune response, such as in poison ivy contact.

Autoimmune Disorders

Conditions in which the immune system attacks the body's own cells.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

A multisystem autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of antinuclear antibodies.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Chronic inflammation affecting joints, often with additional systemic complications.

Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Disorder (SCID)

Genetic disorder causing malfunction of both B and T immune cells.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

Retrovirus that infects CD4 T cells leading to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).