Communicable Diseases Flashcards
What are Lymphocytes?
They are white blood cells that recognise proteins on the surface of pathogens called antigens.
Where do Lymphocytes do?
They detect pathogens and produce antibodies to stop them.
What do some Pathogens produce?
Toxins
What can Lymphocytes do to counter these toxins?
They neutralise the toxins.
What are Phagocytes?
A white blood cell that surrounds the pathogens in blood, surround them and bind them.
What does the Phagocytes membrane do?
It surrounds the pathogen and enzymes found inside the cell break down the pathogen and destroy it.
What are Phagocytes called?
Non - specific (as they do this to all pathogens they encounter)
What are Lymphocytes called?
Specific (as they have to be specifically built for that pathogen)
What is the immune system?
The body defence against entry of any foreign bodies, its role is to prevent disease.
What is a vaccine?
A substance containing dead or inactive pathogens.
What is a Vaccination?
A vaccination involves injecting the small amount of dead or inactive pathogens into the body.
How does the body react to the vaccination?
The body senses the antigens in the pathogens and it produces antibodies to attack them (even though the Pathogen is harmless)
What are some positives of Vaccinations?
- They help control communicable diseases e.g measles.
2. Epidemics can be prevented due to the mass scale vaccinations.
What are some cons of vaccinations?
- Sometimes Vaccinations may not work and can not give you immunity.
- Patients can sometimes have a bad reaction to the vaccine.
What are Pathogens?
Microorganisms that enter the body and cause disease
