fighting disease Flashcards
What is the primary function of the skin in fighting disease?
Acts as a barrier to pathogens and secretes antimicrobial substances
The skin’s role is crucial in preventing the entry of harmful microorganisms.
What substances do hairs and mucus in the nose trap?
Particles that could contain pathogens
This is part of the body’s first line of defense against infections.
What is the role of mucus in the trachea and bronchi?
Traps pathogens
Mucus plays a vital role in respiratory health by preventing pathogens from reaching the lungs.
What structures in the trachea and bronchi help move mucus?
Cilia
Cilia are hair-like structures that help in the clearance of mucus from the airways.
What does the stomach produce to kill pathogens?
Hydrochloric acid
This acidic environment helps in digestion and protects against ingested pathogens.
What triggers the immune system to act against pathogens?
The presence of pathogens in the body
The immune response is activated when foreign invaders are detected.
What are the primary cells involved in the immune response?
White blood cells
These cells are essential for identifying and eliminating pathogens.
What process do white blood cells use to engulf and digest pathogens?
Phagocytosis
This is a key mechanism of the immune response where pathogens are consumed.
What are antigens?
Unique molecules on the surface of invading pathogens
Antigens trigger the immune response by being recognized as foreign.
What do white blood cells produce in response to foreign antigens?
Antibodies
Antibodies are specific proteins that help identify and neutralize pathogens.
What happens when the same pathogen infects the body again?
White blood cells rapidly produce antibodies to kill it
This is the basis for natural immunity.
What is the function of B-lymphocytes?
Produce antibodies
B-lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell crucial for adaptive immunity.
What do antitoxins counteract?
Toxins produced by invading bacteria
This is another defense mechanism of the immune system.
True or False: A lower level of white blood cells makes a person more susceptible to infections.
True
A healthy white blood cell count is essential for fighting off infections.
Fill in the blank: The immune system’s response includes consuming pathogens, producing ________, and producing antitoxins.
Antibodies
These three mechanisms work together to protect the body from infections.
