Non Specific Immunity Flashcards
1st line of defence
Prevention of entry into the body.
Skin: acts as a barrier to the micro organism.
Mucous membrane: trap micro organisms, making it difficult to penetrate the cells. Can also be removed through sneezing and coughing.
Natural secretions: contain anti-bacterial agents- tears and saliva.
Natural flora: non pathogenic bacteria found in the body inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria.
2nd line of defence
Phagocytes (killer cells).
Move to a point of entry of micro organism.
Are the WBC that engulf and destroy the micro organisms.
Produced by cells in the bone marrow.
Engulf pathogens and use enzymes to break down those cells.
2nd line of defence: inflammation
Is a reaction to the infection and occurs when the arterioles in the area dilate causing increased blood supply.
The blood carries phagocytes to the area.
Phagocytes move from the capillaries to the infection.
Phagocytes release histamine- attract more WBC’s.
Platelets will form a clot- prevent spread of infection.
Can produce pus - contains the dead WBC’s that engulf the infection.
Non specific immunity
Involves many physical and chemical barriers to the foreign object.
Reacts in the same way to all infections
Has no “memory” about prior infections.
Level of response is the same for each infection of the organism
