Chapter 6 Lymphatic and Immune Systems Flashcards

Lymphatic System Terminology

• anti-: Prefix meaning "against."
• phag/o: Indicates the action "to eat" or "to swallow."
• lymphaden/o: Refers to lymph nodes, vital components in the immune system.
• lymphangi/o: Pertains to lymph vessels, the channels transporting lymph fluid.
• tox/o: Denotes "poison," relevant in discussing toxic reactions in the body.
• sarc/o: Relates to "flesh," used in various medical terms regarding tissue.
• -plasm: The formative material of cells, which is crucial in cellular structure.
• immun/o: Represents protection and safety in the context of the immune response.
• splen/o: Refers to the spleen, an organ important in filtering blood.
• onc/o: Indicates a tumor, whether benign or malignant in nature.

Pathogens and Infections

• spirochetes: A type of bacteria known for its ability to move, significant in various diseases.
• streptococci: Chain-forming bacteria that can lead to multiple infections.
• staphylococci: Cluster-forming bacteria associated with skin infections.
• viruses: Pathogens that can only survive by invading host cells.
• parasites: Organisms that live within other hosts, often causing disease.

Immune System Features

• spleen: Has a hemolytic function, breaking down blood cells and filtering pathogens.
• lymphadenitis: Characterized by inflammation of the lymph nodes, indicating infection.
• interferons: A group of proteins that activate the immune system and inhibit viral replication.
• thymus: An organ that plays critical roles in developing and maturing T cells.
• tonsils: Forms a protective ring of lymphoid tissue, providing the first line of defense.

Immune Disorders and Treatments

• lymphadenectomy: Surgical removal of a lymph node, often performed in cancer treatments.
• immunosuppressant: Medication that reduces the strength of the immune system, used in transplant patients.
• cytotoxic drugs: Medications that kill or damage cells, often used in chemotherapy.
• antibiotics: Drugs used to combat bacterial infections; resistance is a growing concern.
• adjuvant therapy: Treatment after primary cancer therapy to decrease recurrence risk.

Notable Conditions and Vaccines

• herpes zoster: The medical term for shingles, a reactivation of the chickenpox virus.
• measles, mumps, rubella vaccination (MMR): A combined immunization to protect against these three diseases.
• malaria: Caused by a parasite transmitted by mosquito bites, highlighting the importance of vector control.
• Kaposi's sarcoma: A cancer often associated with HIV infection, demonstrating the interplay between immune deficiency and cancer.
• anaphylaxis: A severe allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention.

Surgical Procedures and Diagnostic Tests

• splenectomy: Surgical removal of the spleen, typically in cases of trauma or certain diseases.
• needle biopsy: A minimally invasive procedure to obtain tissue samples for diagnosis.
• Lymphoscintigraphy: A diagnostic test to evaluate lymphatic system damage or abnormalities.

Miscellaneous Terms and Definitions

• cytokines: Signaling proteins that modulate immune responses.
• autoimmune disorder: Conditions where the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues.
• adenocarcinoma: A type of cancer arising from glandular tissues.
• splenomegaly: Enlargement of the spleen, often indicative of underlying health issues.
• thymitis: Inflammation of the thymus gland, which can affect immune function.

Key Vaccines and Diseases

• varicella: Commonly known as chickenpox, a highly contagious viral infection.
• antiviral drugs: Medications used to treat viral infections, specifically for HIV.
• B cells: Lymphocytes that produce specific antibodies for immune response.
• lymphangitis: Inflammation of lymph vessels, often due to infections.
• tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils, commonly caused by infections.