Immune System

The body’s prime defense against disease – causing pathogens or cancer These have molecules on them that trigger a response of the immune system called ANTIGENS

Immune Response

The immune system is the body's defense against infectious organisms and other invaders. Through a series of steps the immune system attacks organisms and substances that invade body systems and cause disease.

Antigen

A substance which

stimulates

the production of

antibodies

by the immune system which will attack and destroy the foreign pathogen

Antibodies

Type of protein Produced in response to a detected antigen Each antibody is unique and fights of

specific

antigens

Lymphatic System

Contains immune cells to protect against foreign invaders Contains nodes which filter infection

Transplants

Sometimes the immune system attacks transplanted organs  “rejection” Immunosuppresent drugs can be taken to decrease the activity of the immune system 

Leaves the patient vulnerable to infection

Allergies

Allergic reactions  response to normally harmless substances ex: dust, pollen, cats  release of histamines  sneezing, hives, swelling,  breathing difficulties ** can take an anti-histamine to relieve symptoms

Immunity

Active  Infection (production of antibodies which recognize a specific antigen)  Immunization (vaccine) Passive  Material transmission of resistance  Antibody transfer

Make a Vaccine

Obtain pathogen (polio, small pox, measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, chicken pox, HPV)

 Treat to kill or weaken  Inject into organism  Body makes antibodies and WBC’s to attack  Some WBC remain and remember pathogen  attack quickly if seen again

AIDS Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Disease of the Immune System – caused by a virus = HIV (Human Immunodeficiency virus) -- damages immune system by killing helper T-cells --Inactive for years --When activated if leaves patient unable to fight infections or cancer

Transmission of AIDS: 1. Sexual contact (body fluids) 2. Blood to blood (transfusions, IV drugs) 3. Mother to baby Over 2 Million people infected!

Prevention of AIDS: 1. Abstinence 2. Condoms 3. No drugs