Immunologic

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Immunologic refers to anything related to the immune system, the body's defense against infectious organisms and other invaders. It involves a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body.

Overview[edit | edit source]

The immune system is a host defense system comprising many biological structures and processes within an organism that protects against disease. It detects a wide variety of agents, from viruses to parasitic worms, and needs to distinguish them from the organism's own healthy cells and tissues, in order to function properly.

Components of the Immune System[edit | edit source]

The immune system is made up of two main parts: the innate, (or non-specific) immune system and the adaptive (or specific) immune system.

Innate Immune System[edit | edit source]

The innate immune system is the first line of defense. It includes physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes, and internal defenses like phagocytes and the complement system.

Adaptive Immune System[edit | edit source]

The adaptive immune system is more complex and responds to specific invaders with targeted attacks. It includes lymphocytes, including B cells and T cells, and antibodies.

Immune Response[edit | edit source]

When the immune system comes into contact with a pathogen, it triggers an immune response. The immune system releases antibodies, which attach to antigens on the pathogens and tell the immune system to destroy them.

Disorders of the Immune System[edit | edit source]

Disorders of the immune system can result in autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases and cancer. Immunodeficiency occurs when the immune system is less active than normal, resulting in recurring and life-threatening infections.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Immunologic Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD