Blood, Lymphatic & Immune System - Pathologies Flashcards
Acquired Immunity
Immunity developed over time through exposure to specific pathogens or vaccines. It involves the production of antibodies and memory cells, allowing the body to respond more effectively to future infections.
Adaptive Immunity
A specialized branch of acquired immunity that includes B cells and T cells, which recognize and remember specific antigens, leading to a stronger immune response upon subsequent exposures.
Adenoids
A cluster of lymphatic tissue located in the upper part of the throat behind the nasal cavity, playing a role in trapping and filtering harmful pathogens before they enter the body.
Agranulocyte
A type of white blood cell that lacks granules in its cytoplasm, such as lymphocytes (B and T cells) and monocytes, which are crucial for immune function and response.
Antigen
Any foreign substance, such as bacteria, viruses, or toxins, that triggers an immune response, leading to the production of specific antibodies by the immune system.
Apheresis
A medical procedure where specific components of blood (such as plasma, platelets, or white blood cells) are separated and removed, while the rest of the blood is returned to the body. This is used for conditions like leukemia or autoimmune diseases.
Aplastic Anemia
A rare but serious blood disorder in which the bone marrow fails to produce enough red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, leading to fatigue, infections, and excessive bleeding.
Appendix
A small, finger-like organ attached to the large intestine, which was once thought to be vestigial but is now believed to play a role in gut immunity and the maintenance of beneficial gut bacteria.
B Cell (B Lymphocyte)
A type of white blood cell responsible for producing antibodies in response to pathogens. Some B cells become memory B cells, which enable a quicker immune response upon future exposure to the same pathogen.
Basophil
A type of white blood cell containing granules filled with histamine and other chemicals that are released during allergic reactions and inflammation. They help initiate the immune response to allergens and parasites.
Blood Transfusions
The transfer of blood or blood components (such as red blood cells, plasma, or platelets) from a donor to a recipient, often used in cases of severe blood loss, anemia, or clotting disorders.
Bone Marrow
The soft, spongy tissue inside bones that produces blood cells, including red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets through a process called hematopoiesis.
Cytotoxic T Cell (Killer T Cell)
A subtype of T cell that directly attacks and destroys virus-infected cells, cancer cells, and other harmful invaders by releasing toxic enzymes.
Eosinophil
A type of white blood cell involved in allergic reactions and the defense against parasitic infections, particularly helminths (parasitic worms). Elevated eosinophil counts often indicate an allergic reaction or parasitic infection.
Erythroblast
An immature red blood cell found in the bone marrow that develops into a mature erythrocyte after shedding its nucleus.
Erythrocyte (Red Blood Cell - RBC)
A type of blood cell responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body using hemoglobin. RBCs are produced in the bone marrow and have a lifespan of about 120 days.
