Chapter 5 Key Terms Flashcards
adenoids
small masses lymphoid tissue posterior to nasal cavity - infected they enlarge and affect breathing
antibody
a special kind of protein that the body produces to destroy or inactivate an antigen
antigen
a specific substance that, when introduces to the body, stimulates the production of an antibody
autoimmune disorder
a disorder that arises when the immune system fails to differentiate between “self” and “non-self” cells, causing the body to attack its own cells and tissues
immune system
network of organs, tissues and cells that work together to protect the body from disease-causing pathogens such as bacteria, toxins, viruses, and cancer cells
immunologist
physician who specializes in the study and treatment of disease and disorders of the immune system
immunology
study of the immune system
lymph
a clear or milky-white fluid that contains lymphocytes or specialized leukocytes (WBC’s) that protect the body from infection and disease; lymphatic fluid
lymphatic system
body system that works with the immune system to filter and destroy dead blood cells, particulate waste, and pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, toxins, and cancer cells
lymphocytes
specialized leukocytes (WBC’s) that protect the body from infection and disease by attacking foreign substances in the blood
non-specific immunity
general protection provided by the immune system against many different types of pathogens
pathogen
a microorganism capable of causing disease
phagocyte
a specialized type of disease-fighting cell that engulfs and destroys bacteria and other harmful microorganisms in the body
specific immunity
the ability of the body to recognize and respond to a specific pathogen, such as a bacterium or virus
spleen
the organ above the stomach that contains infection-fighting leukocytes, controls the amount of blood in the body, and destroys old or damaged red blood cells
