Immune System

Question 1

Define allergies

Answer 1

Abnormal immune responses to harmless substances

Question 2

How do allergies occur

Answer 2

Antibodies bind to mast cells (types of WBC) releasing histamines and other substances causing allergy symptoms

Question 3

Define anaphylaxis

Answer 3

Rare, acute, system allergic reaction; leads to worse, life-threatening allergic symptoms, often constricting airways

Question 4

List symptoms of anaphylactic shock

Answer 4

• Difficulty breathing, swallowing
• Redness
• Itchiness
• Hives
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea

Question 5

Define immunodeficiency

Answer 5

Congenital or acquired deficiency in either number or function of immune cells

Question 6

Define AIDS

Answer 6

Acquired ImmunoDeficiency Syndrome, caused by HIV virus interfering with activity of helper T cells

Question 7

Define autoimmune diseases

Answer 7

Variety of types, wherein immune system attacks its own antigens

Question 8

Examples of autoimmune diseases

Answer 8

Multiple sclerosis, type I diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus