1: Introduction to the Immune System

Question 1

What does the immune system do?

Answer 1

Identifies and eliminates microorganisms, harmful substances and abnormal cancer cells

Question 2

By which two means does the immune system identify its targets?

Answer 2

1. Distinguishing ‘self’ molecules from ‘non-self’ molecules

2. Identifying ‘danger’ signals

Question 3

Which process produces danger signals?

Answer 3

Acute inflammation

Question 4

What two problems are indicative of an immune OVERreaction?

Answer 4

1. Allergic reactions

2. Autoimmune diseases

Question 5

What two problems are indicative of an immune UNDERreaction?

Answer 5

1. Cancer

2. Infection

Question 6

Name two phenomena associated with a malfunctioning immune system.

Answer 6

1. Recurrent infection
2. Allergy
3. Autoimmune disease
4. Cancer
5. Transplant rejection

Question 7

Name two treatments which involve modulating the immune system.

Answer 7

1. Vaccination

2. Immune suppression

Question 8

Skin is made up of tightly packed, highly _____ cells.

Answer 8

keratinized

Question 9

What is the average pH of skin?

Answer 9

5.5

Question 10

Name two substances secreted by sebaceous glands in the skin.

Answer 10

1. Hydrophobic oils
2. Lysozymes
3. Ammonia
4. Antimicrobial peptides!!!

Question 11

___ membranes line body cavities which come into contact with the environment.

Answer 11

Mucous

Question 12

Which tracts are lined by mucous membranes?

Answer 12

1. Respiratory tract
2. GI tract
3. Urogenital tract

Question 13

Mucous acts as a ___ ___ to trap invading pathogens.

Answer 13

physical barrier

Question 14

Which antibody is found in secreted mucous?

Answer 14

IgA

Question 15

What are the hair-like structures which beat mucous out of tracts?

Answer 15

Cilia

Question 16

What is the name given to bacteria which live in harmony with their host?

Answer 16

Commensal bacteria

Question 17

Commensal bacteria and their host share a ____ relationship.

Answer 17

symbiotic

Question 18

Name a couple of ways in which commensal bacteria protect against infection.

Answer 18

1. Produce bactericidins
2. Reduces pH of large bowel
3. Compete with pathogens for nutrients
4. Produce anti-microbial fatty acids
5. Produce Vitamins K and B12

Question 19

Which kind of antibiotics may eradicate commensal bacteria?

Answer 19

Broad-spectrum antibiotics

Question 20

Name two examples of opportunistic infection which can occur in the wake of broad-spectrum antibiotic use.

Answer 20

1. Oral candidiasis
2. Vaginal candiasis
3. Clostridium difficile infection

Question 21

How may the constitutive barriers be breached during normal healthcare?

Answer 21

1. Insertion of equipment (e.g IV lines, catheters and NG tubes)
2. Anti-acid medication
3. Nasal decongestants
4. Anti-bacterial wipes