Diseases of the Immune System

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and definitions related to the diseases of the immune system, focusing on hypersensitivities, autoimmune disorders, and immune deficiencies.

Hypersensitivity

An overreaction of the immune system to a substance that is typically harmless.

Type I Hypersensitivity

IgE mediated reaction to soluble antigens, causing quick allergic responses upon first exposure.

IgE

Immunoglobulin E, an antibody that binds to mast cells and triggers allergy symptoms on re-exposure to an allergen.

Sensitization

The process by which the immune system produces IgE antibodies in response to an allergen.

Allergen

A substance that can cause an allergic reaction, such as pollen or certain foods.

Anaphylaxis

A severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by symptoms such as difficulty breathing and swelling.

Cytotoxic Hypersensitivity (Type II)

Hypersensitivity that involves IgG or IgM antibodies binding to cell surface antigens, leading to complement activation and tissue damage.

Immune Complex Hypersensitivity (Type III)

A condition where immune complexes formed by antibodies binding multiple antigens induce inflammation.

T Cell Mediated Hypersensitivity (Type IV)

A type of hypersensitivity involving T cells that lead to tissue damage, often seen in conditions like contact dermatitis.

Autoimmue Disorders

Conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, often due to autoantibodies.

Autoantibodies

Antibodies that are produced against ‘self’ antigens, often resulting in autoimmune disorders.

Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID)

A genetic disorder characterized by the absence of T cells and B cells, severely compromising the immune system.