Alterations in Immune Function

These flashcards cover key concepts about hypersensitivity, immune deficiencies, and the immune system's responses, essential for understanding alterations in immune function.

Hypersensitivity

An altered immunologic response to an antigen resulting in disease or damage to the host.

Type I Hypersensitivity

IgE-mediated immediate allergic reactions initiated by cross-linking IgE on mast cells.

Anaphylaxis

A severe, rapid hypersensitivity reaction occurring within minutes of re-exposure, potentially life-threatening.

Immune Deficiencies

Conditions where the immune system's ability to fight diseases is compromised or entirely absent.

Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders

Congenital conditions caused by genetic defects affecting immune system function.

T cell-mediated hypersensitivity

Type IV hypersensitivity characterized by T cells reacting to altered cells.

Autoimmunity

An immune response against the body's own tissues causing damage.

Complement System

A part of the immune system that enhances the ability to clear microbes and damaged cells.

Immune Complex Reaction

Type III hypersensitivity resulting from antibody-antigen complexes depositing in tissues.

HIV

Human Immunodeficiency Virus; a virus that attacks the immune system, leading to AIDS.

AIDS

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; the late stage of HIV infection marked by severe immune deficiency.

IgE

Immunoglobulin E; an antibody associated with allergic reactions.

Type II Hypersensitivity

Tissue-specific reactions mediated by antibodies targeting specific cell antigens.

Selective IgA Deficiency

A primary immunodeficiency characterized by low levels of IgA, leading to increased infections.

Cytotoxic T cells

T lymphocytes that kill cancer cells or cells infected with viruses.

T helper cells

CD4+ T cells that help activate other immune cells, including B cells and cytotoxic T cells.

Transplant rejection

An immune response against transplanted tissue due to immune recognition of foreign antigens.

Opportunistic infections

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

Immunoglobulin

Antibodies produced by B cells that play a key role in immune response.

Delayed hypersensitivity

Type IV hypersensitivity occurring 24-72 hours after exposure due to T cell activation.

Lymphocytes

A type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune response.