Immune system

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts in pathophysiology and the etiology of diseases focusing on immunity, immune responses, and related terms.

Immunity

The body's ability to resist or eliminate potentially harmful foreign materials or abnormal cells.

Innate Immunity

Natural immunity which includes physical and biochemical barriers and is the first line of defense at the body's surface.

Adaptive Immunity

A slow and specific immune response that targets particular invading microorganisms and involves memory for quicker future responses.

Inflammation

A complex biological process in response to pathogens and irritants, characterized by swelling and redness.

MHC 1

Major histocompatibility complex involved in antigen presentation and triggering T cells or natural killer cells.

Neutrophil

The most abundant white blood cells that are efficient phagocytes and key cells of the innate immune system.

Macrophage

A type of white blood cell that phagocytoses microbes in tissues and presents antigens.

Helper T-lymphocytes (CD4+)

Activate B-lymphocytes and help to destroy ingested microbes.

Cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CD8+)

Destroy infected cells containing microbes or microbial proteins.

Humoral Immune Response

B-lymphocytes produce antibodies that target antigens on microbes.

Microbiome

Normal flora made up of microorganisms that protect the body by competing with pathogens.

Phagocytosis

The process by which certain cells engulf and digest microbes.

Complement System

A series of proteins that helps antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens.

Natural Killer Cells

A type of lymphocyte that recognizes and eliminates virus-infected and abnormal cells.

Immunodeficiency

Loss or inadequate function of components of the immune system, which increases the risk of infection.

Hypersensitivity Reaction

An excessive immune response to antigens that can cause cell damage.

Antigen

A foreign substance that induces an immune response.

Cytokines

Small signaling proteins released by cells to communicate and regulate immune responses.

Active Immunity

Immunity that develops as a result of exposure to an antigen through infection or vaccination.

Passive Immunity

Immunity acquired through the transfer of antibodies from another source, such as breast milk.

Infection

The invasion of the body by pathogens, potentially resulting in disease.