Non-Specific Resistance Mechanisms

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to non-specific resistance mechanisms in the immune system.

Resistance

Ability to fend off an infection or disease.

Pathogen

An organism that causes disease.

Susceptibility

Tendency to succumb to an infection or disease.

Non-specific Resistance

Also known as innate immunity; not particular about what it protects against and effective against a wide range of pathogens.

Specific Resistance

Also known as immunity; very specific and must be acquired, can differentiate between serotypes.

Natural Barriers

Physical obstructions like skin and mucous that provide defense against pathogens.

Phagocytosis

Process where particulate matter is engulfed and brought into the cell by phagocytes.

Inflammation

Local response to injury characterized by swelling, redness, pain, and heat.

Complement Proteins

Plasma proteins involved in marking pathogens for destruction and enhancing immune responses.

Fever

Elevation of body temperature as a response to infection, typically 2-5 degrees above normal.

Chemotaxis

Movement of phagocytes towards a chemical signal released by pathogens.

Opsonization

Coating of pathogens to tag them for phagocytosis.

Interferon

Proteins produced in response to viral infections that protect neighboring cells.

Antimicrobial Proteins

Small chains of amino acids produced locally to fight infections.

Vasodilation

Widening of blood vessels that increases blood flow and permeability during inflammation.

Pus

Dead, dying white blood cells, pathogens, and debris formed during infection.

Histamine

A chemical released during inflammation that causes vasodilation and increases capillary permeability.