Immune System Basics Quiz

Immune System Basics

• Innate immunity is the body's first line of defense against pathogens, it is present from birth, and it is non-specific.
• Adaptive immunity is specific to particular pathogens, it develops over time through exposure to antigens, and it involves memory cells.
• Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped organs that filter lymph and trap pathogens.
• Inflammation is a physiological response to tissue injury or infection, characterized by redness, swelling, pain, and heat.
• Macrophages are phagocytic cells that engulf and destroy pathogens.
• Fever is an increase in body temperature that enhances the activity of immune cells and inhibits pathogen growth.

Immune System Components and Functions

• Lymphatic system roles include transporting lymph, absorbing dietary fats, and facilitating immune responses.
• T cells directly kill infected cells and are matured in the thymus.
• B cells produce antibodies.
• Antibodies neutralize toxins, activate the complement system for pathogen destruction, and opsonize pathogens for phagocytosis.
• Natural killer (NK) cells attack and destroy infected or cancerous cells.
• Cytokines are signaling molecules that regulate immune responses.
• Spleen functions include filtering blood, removing old red blood cells, and storing platelets.
• Complement system enhances phagocytosis and destroys pathogens.

Pathogens and Infections

• Bacteria are single-celled organisms that are responsible for many diseases.
• Viruses are infectious agents that require a host cell to replicate.
• Fungi are eukaryotic organisms that can cause infections, such as athlete's foot and yeast infections.
• Protozoa are single-celled eukaryotic organisms that can cause diseases, such as malaria.

Immune Disorders

• Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system attacks its own tissues, leading to inflammation and damage.
• Allergies are a hyperactive immune responses to harmless substances, also known as allergens.
• Immunodeficiencies are conditions in which the immune system is weakened, making individuals more susceptible to infections.

Treatments and Interventions

• Antibiotics inhibit bacterial growth or kill bacteria.
• Vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce immunity against specific pathogens, and they create memory cells.
• Antiseptics reduce the number of pathogens on surfaces in healthcare settings.
• Immunosuppressive drugs weaken the immune system to prevent rejection of organ transplants or to treat autoimmune diseases.

Infection Control

• Infection control measures are crucial for preventing the spread of infections in healthcare settings.
• Standard precautions are a set of infection control measures that apply to all patients regardless of their diagnosis.
• Transmission-based precautions are additional precautions that are taken for patients who are known or suspected to have a contagious disease.