Diseases of the Lymphatic & Immune Systems: Hypersensitivities and Cancer

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding hypersensitivities, autoimmune reactions, graft rejections, and cancer as discussed in the lecture.

Hypersensitivity

An exaggerated reaction to a specific antigen that is not inherently harmful to humans.

Anaphylaxis

A life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by swelling of the throat, airway obstruction, and decreased cardiac output.

Type 1 Hypersensitivity

Immediate hypersensitivity that involves rapid immune responses to harmless antigens, commonly leading to allergic reactions.

IgE antibodies

Antibodies produced during sensitization that bind to allergens upon subsequent exposure, triggering allergic reactions.

Antihistamines

Medications used to treat allergic symptoms associated with hypersensitivity.

Type 2 Hypersensitivity

Cytotoxic hypersensitivity where antibodies target antigens on cell surfaces, causing destruction or dysfunction of affected cells.

Type 3 Hypersensitivity

Immune complex hypersensitivity involving immune complexes that deposit in tissues and attract neutrophils, causing inflammation.

Type 4 Hypersensitivity

Delayed hypersensitivity mediated by T cells causing inflammation and tissue damage.

Autoimmune Reactions

When the immune system incorrectly initiates a response against the body’s own healthy cells, tissues, or organs.

Graft Rejection

The immune response against a transplanted tissue or organ, which can occur despite patient-donor matching.

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)

A condition that occurs when donor cells attack the recipient’s healthy tissues post-transplant.

Malignant cells

Abnormal cells that exhibit uncontrolled growth and can invade and harm other tissues.

Benign cells

Cells that grow and divide in a controlled manner, remaining localized.

Metastasis

The spread of cancer cells through the blood or lymphatic system to other body parts.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

A virus associated with certain strains that can lead to cancer formation; it is vaccine-preventable.

Kaposi’s sarcoma

A cancer caused by herpes virus, particularly affecting immunocompromised individuals.