Genetics, Altered Immune Responses & Transplantation

A comprehensive set of vocabulary flashcards designed for the study and review of key concepts related to genetics, immune responses, and transplantation.

Immunity

The body’s ability to resist infection or disease through defense, homeostasis, and surveillance.

Antigen

A substance that initiates the immune response, allowing the body to recognize itself.

Innate Immunity

Immunity present at birth, providing first-line defense against pathogens.

Acquired Immunity

Immunity obtained through exposure to antigens or immunization.

Active Acquired Immunity

Immunity that develops after exposure to a disease or through immunization.

Passive Acquired Immunity

Immunity gained by receiving antibodies from another source.

Lymphocytes

Type of white blood cell involved in the immune response, including B and T lymphocytes.

Cytokines

Chemical messengers in the immune system that communicate and regulate immune responses.

Hypersensitivity Reaction

An exaggerated immune response that can cause tissue damage.

Type I Hypersensitivity

IgE mediated reaction causing allergic responses, such as asthma and anaphylaxis.

Type II Hypersensitivity

Cytotoxic reaction where IgG or IgM antibodies bind to antigens on cell surfaces.

Type III Hypersensitivity

Immune complex reaction where antigen-antibody complexes deposit in tissues.

Type IV Hypersensitivity

Delayed cell-mediated immune response involving sensitized T cells.

Anaphylaxis

A severe, rapid allergic reaction that can lead to shock and requires immediate treatment.

Autoimmunity

An inappropriate immune response where the body targets its own tissues.

Immunodeficiency Disorder

A condition that results in reduced effectiveness of the immune system.

Plasmapheresis

A procedure to remove plasma containing harmful antibodies from the blood.

Transplant Rejection

The immune system's response against foreign tissues or organs.

Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD)

A condition when donor immune cells attack the host's tissues.

HLA Typing

A test for matching donor and recipient tissues based on human leukocyte antigens.

Corticosteroids

Anti-inflammatory medications used to suppress the immune response.

Immunotherapy

Treatment aimed at modulating the immune system to control allergic reactions.

Interferons

Cytokines that have antiviral effects and modulate the immune response.

Autoantibodies

Antibodies that mistakenly target and react with a person's own tissues.

Complement System

Part of the immune system that enhances the ability to clear pathogens from the body.

Passive Immunity via Breast Milk

Transfer of antibodies from mother to infant through breastfeeding.

Cytotoxic T Cells (CD8)

T cells that kill virus-infected cells, tumor cells, and reject transplanted tissue.

Helper T Cells (CD4)

T cells that regulate adaptive immune responses and help activate B cells.

Eosinophils

A type of white blood cell involved in responding to allergies and parasitic infections.

Immunosenescence

The gradual decline of the immune system associated with aging.

Antibody

A protective protein produced by the immune system in response to an antigen.

Immunoglobulin G (IgG)

The most abundant antibody type in circulation, responsible for long-term immunity.

Immunocompetence

The ability of the immune system to identify and destroy foreign substances.

Immediate Hypersensitivity

Reactions that occur quickly after exposure to allergens, often within minutes.

Delayed Hypersensitivity

A reaction that occurs hours to days after exposure to an antigen.

Histamine

A chemical mediator released during allergic reactions that causes inflammation and allergy symptoms.

Skin Test

Procedure to identify specific allergens causing a patient's symptoms.

Killing Action of NK Cells

Natural killer cells recognize and destroy virus-infected and tumor cells.

Passive Natural Immunity

Immunity acquired through the transfer of antibodies from mother to child.

Memory Cells

Long-lived immune cells that enable faster response upon re-exposure to an antigen.

Graft Rejection Types

Includes hyperacute, acute, and chronic rejection based on timing and mechanism.

Transfusion Reaction

An immune response to transfused blood that can cause serious complications.

Organ Allocation

The process of matching and distributing organs for transplantation.

Informed Consent for Transplantation

Legal consent ensuring a patient understands the risks and procedures associated with a transplant.

Monitoring for Allergic Reactions

Assessing for signs of anaphylaxis or other allergic responses during treatments.

Autoimmune Disease Examples

Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis.

Nursing Diagnosis for Allergic Reactions

Identifying potential complications based on patient history and presenting symptoms.

Vaccination and Immunity

The process of stimulating the immune system to develop protection against specific pathogens.

Chronic Allergies Management

Long-term strategies to minimize exposure and manage symptoms of allergies.

Legal and Ethical Issues in Transplantation

Considerations around organ donation, consent, and ethical treatment of patients.