Biology Immunology Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of the immune system?

  • To protect the body from diseases and pathogens (correct)
  • To provide energy for cellular functions
  • To facilitate digestion of food
  • To regulate body temperature

Which of the following best defines immunity?

  • The ability to feign healing from an illness
  • The body's capacity for physical fitness
  • A state of increased susceptibility to infections
  • Resistance to harmful agents and processes (correct)

Which statement accurately describes a distinguishing feature of antibodies?

  • They are produced by foreign agents
  • They neutralize harmful chemicals only
  • They are elements of the innate immune system
  • They bind specifically to antigens (correct)

How does the body respond to specific pathogens?

<p>By employing adaptive immunity mechanisms (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes autoimmune diseases?

<p>The immune system attacks the body's own healthy cells (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes anaphylaxis?

<p>A severe, life-threatening allergic reaction (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is serum sickness?

<p>A reaction to protein in antiserum leading to immune response (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is classified as an acquired immune deficiency?

<p>HIV/AIDS (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the predominant form of IgA found in mucous secretions?

<p>Secretory IgA (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which immunoglobulin type plays a minimal role in activating the complement system?

<p>IgA (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which of the following conditions is the presence of IgA antiendomysial antibodies significant?

<p>Celiac disease (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which immunoglobulin is primarily associated with type I hypersensitivity reactions?

<p>IgE (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which antibody type is the most abundant in blood circulation?

<p>IgG (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of total immunoglobulins in the body does IgA represent?

<p>15% (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of IgD in B cells?

<p>Activate B cells (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What major factor differentiates the heavy chains of IgE from those of IgG?

<p>IgE has constant domains Cε1–Cε4 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the secretory component of sIgA play?

<p>Prevents degradation by enzymes (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which of the following is selective IgA deficiency involved?

<p>Decreased IgA levels (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the spleen in the immune system?

<p>Filtering blood and removing dead cells (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of immunoglobulin primarily enters breast milk?

<p>IgA (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly describes a characteristic of antibodies?

<p>They bind to pathogens through epitope-paratope interactions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of immunity involves the body’s ability to recognize its own cells as 'self'?

<p>Acquired immunity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which immunoglobulin is involved in antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC)?

<p>IgG (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following immunoglobulins is the least abundant in human blood serum?

<p>IgE (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the thymus in the immune system?

<p>It generates T cells (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents an autoimmune disease?

<p>Type 1 Diabetes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which immunoglobulin is synthesized by plasma cells and is crucial against certain parasitic infections?

<p>IgE (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are viroids primarily known for?

<p>Being infectious RNA without proteins (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of lymph nodes in the immune system?

<p>Filter harmful substances and pathogens (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes IgG from the other classes of antibodies?

<p>It can cross the placenta to provide immunity to the fetus. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do antibodies tag microbes for destruction?

<p>By blocking essential viral components (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a primary immunologic organ?

<p>Spleen (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key property of innate immunity?

<p>It serves as the first line of defense. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a central role of the bone marrow in the immune system?

<p>Production of hematopoietic stem cells (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'autoimmune dysfunction' refer to?

<p>Immune system attacking the body's own cells (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of pathogens are prions responsible for inducing?

<p>Protein misfolding diseases (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the time frame for the maximal reaction in a delayed hypersensitivity reaction?

<p>48 to 72 hours after exposure (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic symptom of serum sickness?

<p>High fever and rash (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of immunodeficiency is severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) classified as?

<p>Genetic immunodeficiency (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following treatments may be used for serum sickness?

<p>Corticosteroids (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of acquired immune deficiencies?

<p>Extrinsic factors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition is characterized by a lack of antibody production, leading to frequent severe infections?

<p>Agammaglobulinemia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following can be considered a secondary immunodeficiency?

<p>HIV infection (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of specific immunity?

<p>It includes the development of immunological memory. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a physical barrier in the first line of defense?

<p>Cilia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the effects of corticosteroids in the context of the immune system?

<p>Inducing immunosuppression (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the role of the complement system in immunity?

<p>Helps in pathogen recognition and destruction (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of immunity does vaccination provide?

<p>Active artificial immunity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common sign of granulocyte deficiency?

<p>Decreased ability to fight bacterial infections (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes autoimmune diseases from other immune disorders?

<p>They involve the immune system attacking healthy cells. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the second line of defense mainly include?

<p>Inflammation and fever responses (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a feature of nonspecific immunity?

<p>It is highly specific to infections. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is an example of an immunodeficiency disorder?

<p>Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly describes innate immunity?

<p>It consists of components present at birth. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a component of the first line of defense?

<p>Phagocytes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Symptoms of autoimmune diseases can include which of the following?

<p>Fever and fatigue (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of natural passive immunity involves maternal transfer?

<p>Transfer of immunoglobulin A (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true regarding the role of cilia in the immune system?

<p>They are involved in the mechanical movement of particles. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common environmental factor associated with autoimmune disease onset?

<p>Exposure to toxins (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of therapeutic approaches for autoimmune diseases?

<p>To manage symptoms and reduce immune system activity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of hypersensitivity reaction is mediated by IgE and involves immediate responses?

<p>Type I Hypersensitivity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary treatment for anaphylaxis?

<p>Intramuscular epinephrine injection (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common cause of anaphylaxis?

<p>Exposure to high altitudes (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates Type IV hypersensitivity from the other types?

<p>It is mediated by T cells and is delayed (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is typically associated with anaphylaxis?

<p>Swelling of the tongue (angioedema) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What class of drugs is commonly used to reduce inflammation in autoimmune diseases?

<p>Corticosteroids (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which scenario is immediate medical attention especially critical?

<p>After exposure to a known allergen resulting in anaphylaxis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of hypersensitivity involves immune complex-mediated reactions?

<p>Type III Hypersensitivity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom can escalate to life-threatening levels during anaphylaxis?

<p>Shortness of breath (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following immune diseases is an example of Type II hypersensitivity?

<p>Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended action for someone with a history of anaphylaxis?

<p>Carry an epinephrine autoinjector (epipen) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which form of hypersensitivity involves T cells and delayed reactions?

<p>Type IV (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly describes the role of IgG antibodies in the immune system?

<p>They predominantly participate in the secondary immune response following class switching and maturation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is IgG important for neonates?

<p>It carries the highest level of specific antibodies against pathogens encountered by the mother. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of IgM antibodies?

<p>They are the first antibodies produced during the initial exposure to an antigen. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about antigens is correct?

<p>An antigen can be anything capable of triggering an immune response. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do epitopes play in the antigen-antibody interaction?

<p>They are molecular determinants on antigens that antibodies bind to. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which feature distinguishes allergens from other antigens?

<p>Allergens trigger hypersensitivity reactions through IgE responses. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do IgG antibodies prevent IgE mediated anaphylaxis?

<p>By binding to allergens before they can interact with IgE on mast cells. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of autoimmune diseases?

<p>They result from antibodies that attack the body's own self-antigens. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component is NOT necessary for an antibody to recognize an antigen?

<p>High molecular weight (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What triggers the activation and expansion of lymphocytes in response to an antigen?

<p>Clonal selection based on antigen specificity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant feature of colostrum concerning immune protection?

<p>It provides a high concentration of IgG to the neonate. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way do antibodies act as receptors?

<p>They recognize and bind to specific antigens on B-cells. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the size and secretion form of IgG antibodies?

<p>IgG is secreted as a monomer and is small, allowing easy diffusion into tissues. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of immune response is specifically associated with IgE antibodies?

<p>Type-I hypersensitivity reactions and allergic responses. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Immunity

The ability of the body to defend itself from foreign substances like pathogens, chemicals, and even cancer cells.

Immune system

A complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful invaders.

Antigen

Any substance that triggers an immune response, such as viruses, bacteria, or pollen.

Antibody

Special proteins produced by immune cells that bind to specific antigens and help neutralize them.

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Nonspecific immunity

The body's first line of defense, acting immediately and nonspecifically against any invader.

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Specific immunity

The body's targeted response, recognizing specific antigens and creating a memory for future encounters.

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Hypersensitivity

A state of exaggerated or inappropriate immune response to a harmless substance.

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Autoimmune disease

When the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues.

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Immune response

The mechanism the immune system uses to protect the body from harmful agents.

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Pathogens

Disease-causing microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

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Infection

The invasion of the body by a pathogen, its multiplication, and the body's response to it.

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Innate immunity

The part of the immune system that provides immediate, non-specific protection against all pathogens.

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Adaptive immunity

The part of the immune system that provides specific, targeted protection against a particular pathogen.

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Immune system's ability to detect and fight infection

The ability to recognize and destroy harmful agents like pathogens.

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Immune system's ability to differentiate self from non-self

The immune system's ability to distinguish between the body's own cells and foreign invaders.

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Immune system's memory

The immune system's ability to remember previous infections and mount a faster and stronger response upon re-exposure.

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Immune system's ability to limit the response

The ability of the immune system to control and limit its response after defeating a pathogen.

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Primary lymphoid organs

The main sites where immune cells are produced, like the bone marrow and thymus.

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Secondary lymphoid organs

The sites where immune cells activate and interact with pathogens, like the lymph nodes and spleen.

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Associated immunologic organs

The body's outer layers that act as a barrier against pathogens, like the skin and mucous membranes.

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Antibodies (Immunoglobulins)

Proteins produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize specific pathogens.

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IgG Antibody

A type of antibody that is the most abundant in the body. It is generated later in the immune response and plays a key role in providing long-term immunity.

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IgM Antibody

The first antibody to appear in the immune response, especially during initial exposure to an antigen.

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Epitope

The specific part of an antigen that is recognized by an antibody.

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Allergen

A type of antigen that triggers an abnormally vigorous immune response, causing an allergy.

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Antigen-Antibody Reaction

The process by which an antibody binds to an antigen.

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Allergy

An exaggerated or inappropriate immune response to a harmless substance.

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Humoral Immunity

An immune response that involves antibodies.

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Cellular Immunity

A type of immunity where cells directly attack foreign invaders.

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Antibody Production

The production of antibodies in response to exposure to an antigen.

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Immune Memory

The ability of the immune system to remember and respond more effectively to previously encountered antigens.

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Vaccination

The introduction of an antigen into the body to stimulate an immune response.

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Immune Tolerance

The ability of the immune system to distinguish between self and non-self antigens, preventing attacks on the body's own tissues.

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Negative Selection

A process that eliminates immune cells that would attack self-antigens.

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Immunoglobulin A (IgA)

An antibody primarily found in mucosal linings, like the digestive tract and respiratory system. It protects against infections by binding to pathogens and preventing them from entering the body.

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Secretory IgA (sIgA)

The most prevalent form of IgA, found in mucous secretions. It is resistant to degradation by enzymes, making it effective in harsh environments.

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Selective IgA Deficiency

A condition caused by an inherited inability to produce IgA, leading to reduced immune function.

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IgA Nephropathy

A kidney disease characterized by deposits of IgA in the kidneys, potentially leading to inflammation and damage.

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Immunoglobulin D (IgD)

An antibody type predominantly found on the surface of immature B lymphocytes, where it signals the B cells to become activated.

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Immunoglobulin E (IgE)

The least abundant antibody in the blood serum, primarily involved in defense against parasitic infections and allergic reactions.

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Immunoglobulin G (IgG)

The most abundant antibody in the blood serum, playing a vital role in long-term immunity and fighting infections.

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Paratope

The binding sites on an antibody molecule where it attaches to a specific antigen.

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Opsonization

The process by which antibodies coat pathogens, making them more easily recognized and engulfed by phagocytes.

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Complement System

A series of protein reactions triggered by IgG that ultimately leads to pathogen elimination.

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Antibody-Dependent Cell-Mediated Cytotoxicity (ADCC)

A mechanism where certain immune cells, like natural killer (NK) cells, destroy cells that are bound by antibodies.

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TRIM21

A protein involved in the removal of pathogens and their components by binding to IgG and directing them to the proteasome for degradation.

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Type II Hypersensitivity

A type of hypersensitivity reaction where antibodies bind to antigens on cell surfaces, leading to cell damage and inflammation.

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Type III Hypersensitivity

A type of hypersensitivity reaction where immune complexes form and deposit in tissues, causing inflammation and damage.

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Agglutination

The process of binding pathogens together, making them easier to eliminate by immune cells.

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Abnormal Immune Response

A condition where the immune system becomes overactive or underactive, potentially attacking healthy cells.

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Skin

A physical barrier that prevents microorganisms from entering the body.

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Mucous Membrane

A membrane that produces mucus and acid, trapping and destroying ingested microbes.

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Cilia

Tiny hair-like structures that move rhythmically, pushing out foreign particles.

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Phagocytosis

The process of engulfing and destroying pathogens by certain immune cells.

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Inflammation

A localized response to infection, characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain.

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Fever

An increase in body temperature, often triggered by infection.

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Immunological Memory

The ability of the immune system to remember previous infections, leading to quicker and stronger responses upon re-exposure.

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Maternal Immunity Transfer

Transfer of antibodies from mother to fetus, providing temporary protection.

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Infection-Induced Immunity

Immunity acquired through exposure to a pathogen, leaving the body with specific antibodies.

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Antibody Transfusion

Injection of pre-made antibodies to provide immediate protection.

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Immunization

Introducing a weakened or inactive form of a pathogen to stimulate an immune response.

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Delayed Hypersensitivity

A type of hypersensitivity reaction that occurs more than 12 hours after exposure to an allergen, peaking between 48 and 72 hours.

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Serum Sickness

A type III hypersensitivity reaction caused by immune complexes that deposit in tissues, leading to inflammation.

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Immunodeficiency

A condition where the immune system's ability to fight off pathogens and cancer is compromised or absent.

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Acquired Immunodeficiency

Immunodeficiency caused by external factors that affect the immune system, like infections or malnutrition.

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Humoral Immune Deficiency

A type of immunodeficiency characterized by a lack of B cells, resulting in decreased or absent antibody production.

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T Cell Deficiency

A type of immunodeficiency where T cells are affected, leading to a compromised immune response.

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Granulocyte Deficiency

A condition where the number of granulocytes (white blood cells that fight infection) is reduced.

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Asplenia

A type of immunodeficiency where the spleen is absent or nonfunctional.

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Complement Deficiency

A condition where the complement system, a part of the immune system that helps fight infection, is not functioning properly.

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Autoimmune Disorder

A state where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues.

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Anaphylaxis

A life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by rapid onset and potentially fatal symptoms.

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Pathophysiology of Anaphylaxis

A condition involving a rapid escalation of the immune system's response, triggered by certain white blood cells releasing inflammatory mediators.

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Signs and Symptoms of Anaphylaxis

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include hives, swelling in the throat or tongue, shortness of breath, vomiting, dizziness, fainting, and low blood pressure.

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Primary Treatment for Anaphylaxis

The immediate treatment for anaphylaxis is an intramuscular injection of epinephrine (like an EpiPen) and securing a reclining position with feet elevated to restore blood flow.

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Additional Treatment for Anaphylaxis

Antihistamines and steroids are used alongside epinephrine to manage anaphylaxis symptoms.

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Gell and Coombs Classification

A system for classifying hypersensitivity reactions based on the antigens and immune responses involved, with four main types.

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Immediate Hypersensitivity Reactions

The first three types of hypersensitivity (Type I, II, and III) are considered immediate because their reactions occur within 24 hours.

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Treatment for Autoimmune Disease

Anti-inflammatory drugs and immunosuppressants are commonly used to manage autoimmune diseases by reducing inflammation and suppressing immune system activity.

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Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg) for Autoimmune Disease

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) can be administered to regulate the immune system in some autoimmune diseases.

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Long-Term Management of Autoimmune Disease

While treatments often lead to symptom improvement, they usually do not cure autoimmune diseases, requiring long-term management.

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Study Notes

General Principles and Practice of Immunology

  • Immunology is the study of the immune system and its responses in health and disease, aiming to maintain and promote body immunity.
  • It also examines immune system malfunctions, like autoimmune diseases and immunodeficiencies.
  • Immunology involves analyzing the chemical, physical, and physiological components of the immune system in vitro, in vivo, and in situ.
  • The immune system comprises innate and adaptive immunity, enabling pathogen defense. Key principles include detecting and fighting infection, recognizing "self" cells, developing memory from prior encounters, and limiting responses post-pathogen elimination.
  • Immunology is applied in various fields, including medicine, nursing, organ transplantation, oncology, and more. These applications work toward pathogen prevention and effective management of pathology or autoimmune disorders.
  • Immunological organs are categorized as primary (bone marrow, thymus), secondary (lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, adenoids), and associated (skin, digestive system).

Antigens and Antibodies

  • Antigens (Ag) are molecules that trigger antibody production. They can be "self" or "non-self".
  • Antibodies (Ab), or immunoglobulins, are Y-shaped proteins that recognize and neutralize foreign substances.
  • Each antibody has a unique paratope that binds to a specific epitope on an antigen.
  • Antibodies exist in five main classes (IgG, IgA, IgM, IgD, IgE) with subclasses and varying roles in the body.
  • IgA is crucial for mucosal immunity. IgG is abundant in blood and provides protection against pathogens by neutralization, opsonization, complement activation, and ADCC.
  • IgM often appears early in immune responses and activates complement.
  • IgE is important in defense against parasites and also in allergic reactions like anaphylaxis.
  • IgD is involved in B cell activation.

Body's Defense Against Microorganisms: Nonspecific and Specific

  • Nonspecific (Innate/Native) Immunity: This is the body's first line of defense against pathogens, working on a broader range of microbes. It does not adapt to specific pathogens and depends on genetically encoded recognition.
  • Specific (Adaptive/Acquired) Immunity: This is a targeted response to particular pathogens mediated by antigen-specific lymphocytes. Key features are specificity and memory, meaning that the immune system "remembers" prior encounters.

Classification of Immunity

  • Immunity is primarily classified as innate and adaptive.
  • Innate immunity further divides into first-line and second-line defenses. Adaptive immunity is classified as either naturally or artificially acquired, which are further categorized as active or passive.

Abnormal Immune Responses

  • Abnormal immune responses can be characterized by immune system overactivity (immunohyperactivity), underactivity (immunodeficiency), or a combination.
  • Primary immunodeficiencies are genetic, while secondary immunodeficiencies are acquired.
  • These responses can cause damage to the body's own tissues and cells through autoimmune disorders/diseases as well as immunodeficiencies, sometimes even without the presence of pathogens.

Autoimmune Responses

  • Autoimmune diseases result from the immune system attacking the body's own tissues and cells.
  • Diagnosing autoimmune disorders is often challenging due to their diverse presentations and the fluctuating nature of symptoms.
  • Genetic and environmental factors likely play a role in their complex etiology.
  • Examples include celiac disease, type 1 diabetes, Graves' disease, inflammatory bowel diseases, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus.
  • Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and modulating the immune response.

Anaphylaxis

  • Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by a rapid onset.
  • It can be triggered by various allergens like insect venom, food, medications, latex, or even physical exercise.
  • Symptoms include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, and potentially loss of consciousness.
  • Immediate epinephrine administration is crucial for treatment.

Serum Sickness

  • Serum sickness is an immune complex hypersensitivity reaction, often caused by exposure to animal serum or certain medications.
  • Symptoms may include rashes, joint pain, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
  • Treatment typically involves addressing symptoms.

Acquired Immune Deficiencies

  • Immunodeficiency refers to a weakened ability of the immune system to fight pathogens and cancer.
  • It can be acquired (most common) due to extrinsic factors like infections (e.g., HIV/AIDS).
  • It can also be due to genetic deficiencies or medications (e.g., immunosuppressants following organ transplantation).
  • Consequences can range from increased susceptibility to infections to potentially life-threatening conditions.

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Test your knowledge on the immune system with this quiz that covers key concepts of immunity, antibodies, and responses to pathogens. Delve into the details of autoimmune diseases and allergic reactions as you answer various questions related to immunology.

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