Immunology Flashcards
What mechanism of the innate response can be observed within the eye?
Blink reflex
What is the role of mucin in tears?
To limit the potential for pathogens to stick to the eye.
What 3 cell types are found in tears?
Neutrophils
Macrophages
Conjunctival mast cells
Which cells found in tears serve to link the innate and adaptive immune responses?
Macrophages
These are a form of antigen-presenting cell (APC).
What is the only part of the eye with lymphatic drainage?
The conjunctiva
What sites within the body may be described to have ‘immune privilege’?
Testes
Placenta
Foetus
Eyes
What is meant by ‘immune privilege’?
Specific tissue-types can tolerate the presence of foreign materials, without an immune response being triggered.
What is sympathetic ophthalmia?
A rare, bilateral granulomatous condition caused by surgery/trauma to one eye.
Immune system becomes sensitised to ocular antigens, and proceeds to mount an attack.
What is the term used to describe oedema of the conjunctiva?
Chemosis
May present in allergic conjunctivitis.
What are potential side-effects of ocular steroid therapy to maintain a corneal transplant?
Cataracts
Glaucoma
