Ch 2 L 1: The Immune System Flashcards
What is the function of the immune system?
protects the body form “not self” entities, such as infections and bacteria
what is the “Terrain Theory”?
the idea that the internal strength of the individual will protect (or fail to protect) them from disease
What is “Germ Theory”?
the idea that disease is caused ONLY by germs, with no other factors playing a part.
How can stress negatively impact overall health and the immune system?
Stress releases chemicals that oxidate the blood, leading to damage to the blood vessels. This damage can result in high cholesterol and and increased risk of heart diseases.
What is a pathogen?
a disease-causing oarganism
What is a microbe?
a microscopic pathogen
Give at least two examples of microbes.
Bacteria
Fungus
Protozoa
Virus
What is an antigen?
any foreign substance that triggers an immune response
Are all pathogens types of antigens?
Yep
Are all antigens types of pathogens?
nope, nope, nope!
Name at least two examples of immune system failure.
Autoimmune
Allergies
Immunodeficiency
If the immune system is attacking the body, this is called…
Auto immune
If the immune system is over reacting to simple antigens (such as pollen, dust, etc.) this is…
Allergies
If the immune system is failing to respod at all, this is…
Immunodeficiency
What is an immune respnse?
How the body recognizes, responds to, and defends against a pathogen
What is innate immunity?
non-specific defenses present from birth, including cough reflex, tears and saliva
What is acquired immunity?
After the immune system “meets” a pathogen for the first time, it “remembers” how to fight the pathogen, so that it can “kill” it quicker and more efficiently the next time they meet.
What is passive immunity?
Antibodies introduced from another organism or individual, such as antibodies passed along in mother’s milk during nursing.
Name at least three components of the external immune system.
Skin Tears Mucus Saliva Stomach acid Langerhans Cells
How does the internal immune system respond to pathogens?
Works to identify the pathogen and organize a coordinated attaqck to suppress, contain and/or destroy the pathogen.
What is the function of the lymph system?
remove waste, toxins and pathogens by “sweeping” the body and carrying the nasty stuff to lymph nodes for filtration. FUN FACT: they swell during a bacterial infection!