Lymphatic & Immune Systems Flashcards

Explores the role of the lymphatic system in immunity, common immune disorders, and diagnostic and treatment procedures. (112 cards)

1
Q

Define:

lymph

A

A clear fluid that circulates throughout the lymphatic system, containing white blood cells, proteins, and other substances, playing a crucial role in the immune system.

The body relies on lymph to transport immune cells to sites of infection.

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2
Q

Define:

lymphatic vessels

A

Thin-walled vessels that carry lymph fluid throughout the body, connecting lymph nodes and facilitating the flow of lymph.

The patient’s lymphatic vessels were examined for signs of obstruction.

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3
Q

Define:

lymph nodes

A

Small, bean-shaped structures that filter lymph fluid and house lymphocytes, playing a key role in the immune response.

The doctor palpated the lymph nodes to check for swelling or tenderness.

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4
Q

Define:

lymphatic capillaries

A

Microscopic vessels that collect excess tissue fluid and transport it to larger lymphatic vessels.

Lymphatic capillaries absorb excess fluid from the interstitial space.

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5
Q

Define:

thoracic duct

A

The largest lymphatic vessel in the body, responsible for draining lymph from the majority of the body into the bloodstream.

The thoracic duct plays a critical role in returning lymph to the circulatory system.

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6
Q

Define:

right lymphatic duct

A

A short lymphatic vessel that drains lymph from the right side of the head, neck, chest, and right arm into the bloodstream.

Lymph from the right side of the body is collected by the right lymphatic duct.

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7
Q

Define:

cisterna chyli

A

A large lymphatic sac located in the abdomen that collects lymph from the lower body and intestinal tract before it enters the thoracic duct.

The cisterna chyli serves as a reservoir for lymph from the lower extremities.

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8
Q

Define:

spleen

A

An organ located in the upper left abdomen that filters blood, recycles iron, and helps produce lymphocytes for the immune response.

The patient had splenomegaly, indicating an enlarged spleen.

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9
Q

Define:

thymus

A

A gland located in the upper chest that is vital for the development and maturation of T lymphocytes, essential for the adaptive immune response.

The thymus is most active during childhood and gradually shrinks with age.

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10
Q

Define:

tonsils

A

Lymphoid tissues located at the back of the throat that help protect against infections by trapping pathogens that enter through the mouth and nose.

The doctor examined the tonsils for signs of infection or enlargement.

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11
Q

Define:

Peyer’s patches

A

Aggregated lymphoid nodules located in the small intestine that monitor intestinal bacteria and prevent the growth of pathogenic bacteria.

Peyer’s patches play a crucial role in gut immunity.

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12
Q

Define:

appendix

A

A small, tube-like structure attached to the large intestine that is thought to play a role in gut immunity and maintaining gut flora.

The patient underwent an appendectomy to remove the inflamed appendix.

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13
Q

Define:

bone marrow

A

The soft, spongy tissue found in the center of bones that produces blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Bone marrow biopsies are often performed to diagnose blood disorders.

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14
Q

Define:

lacteals

A

Lymphatic capillaries located in the villi of the small intestine that absorb dietary fats and transport them into the lymphatic system.

Lacteals help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive tract.

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15
Q

Define:

lymphoid tissue

A

A type of tissue that contains a high concentration of lymphocytes and is involved in the immune response, found in lymph nodes, spleen, and other organs.

Lymphoid tissue is essential for the body’s defense against pathogens.

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16
Q

Define:

lymphoid follicles

A

Small, organized clusters of lymphoid tissue that contain B cells and are found within lymph nodes and the spleen, crucial for the immune response.

Lymphoid follicles are where B cells proliferate and differentiate into plasma cells.

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17
Q

Define:

mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT)

A

Lymphoid tissues located in mucosal membranes throughout the body, including the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, and urogenital tract, that protect against pathogens.

Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) plays a critical role in mucosal immunity.

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18
Q

Define:

gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT)

A

A component of the immune system found in the gastrointestinal tract, including Peyer’s patches and isolated lymphoid follicles, that responds to intestinal pathogens.

Gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) is important for maintaining intestinal health.

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19
Q

Define:

bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT)

A

Lymphoid tissue located in the bronchi and lungs that plays a role in immune responses to respiratory pathogens.

Bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) helps defend against inhaled pathogens.

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20
Q

Define:

afferent lymphatic vessels

A

Lymphatic vessels that carry lymph fluid into a lymph node for filtration and immune processing.

The afferent lymphatic vessels deliver lymph to the lymph node.

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21
Q

Define:

efferent lymphatic vessels

A

Lymphatic vessels that carry filtered lymph away from a lymph node and back into the lymphatic system.

The efferent lymphatic vessels transport clean lymph to the bloodstream.

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22
Q

Define:

lymphocytes

A

A type of white blood cell that plays a central role in the immune response, including B cells and T cells.

Lymphocytes are crucial for identifying and responding to pathogens.

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23
Q

Define:

B cells (B lymphocytes)

A

A type of lymphocyte that produces antibodies and is essential for the humoral immune response.

B cells are activated upon encountering specific antigens.

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24
Q

Define:

T cells (T lymphocytes)

A

A type of lymphocyte that plays a critical role in cell-mediated immunity and includes various subtypes like helper T cells and cytotoxic T cells.

T cells are essential for targeting and destroying infected cells.

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25
# Define: helper T cells (CD4+ T cells)
A subtype of **T cells that assist other immune cells** by releasing cytokines and enhancing the immune response. ## Footnote *Helper T cells* are vital for coordinating the immune response.
26
# Define: cytotoxic T cells (CD8+ T cells)
A subtype of **T cells that directly kill infected or cancerous cells** by recognizing specific antigens. ## Footnote *CD8+ T cells* are crucial for eliminating virus-infected cells.
27
# Define: memory T cells
Long-lived **T cells that remember past infections** and can mount a rapid immune response upon re-exposure to the same pathogen. ## Footnote *Memory T cells* provide long-term immunity after an infection.
28
# Define: regulatory T cells (Tregs)
A subtype of **T cells that help maintain immune tolerance** and prevent autoimmune responses by suppressing overactive immune cells. ## Footnote *Regulatory T cells* are crucial for preventing autoimmune diseases.
29
# Define: plasma cells
**Activated B cells** that produce and secrete large quantities of antibodies in response to an antigen. ## Footnote *Plasma cells* are responsible for producing antibodies that neutralize pathogens.
30
# Define: natural killer (NK) cells
A type of lymphocyte that can **kill tumor cells and virus-infected cells** without prior sensitization, playing a crucial role in innate immunity. ## Footnote *Natural killer cells* provide a rapid response to infected or cancerous cells.
31
# Define: macrophages
**Large phagocytic cells** that engulf and digest pathogens, dead cells, and debris, playing a key role in both innate and adaptive immunity. ## Footnote *Macrophages* are essential for clearing infections and stimulating the immune response.
32
# Define: monocytes
A type of **white blood cell** that **circulates in the bloodstream** and can differentiate into macrophages or dendritic cells upon entering tissues. ## Footnote *Monocytes* migrate to tissues where they become macrophages.
33
# Define: dendritic cells
**Professional antigen-presenting cells** that capture and present antigens to T cells, initiating the adaptive immune response. ## Footnote *Dendritic cells* are crucial for linking the innate and adaptive immune systems.
34
# Define: neutrophils
The **most abundant type of white blood cell** that responds quickly to infections by engulfing and destroying pathogens through phagocytosis. ## Footnote *Neutrophils* are often the first responders to sites of infection.
35
# Define: eosinophils
A type of white blood cell involved in the **response to parasitic infections and allergic reactions**, typically associated with inflammation. ## Footnote *Eosinophils* increase in number during allergic reactions.
36
# Define: basophils
A type of **white blood cell** that **releases histamine and other mediators** during allergic reactions and inflammation. ## Footnote *Basophils* play a role in the body's response to allergens.
37
# Define: mast cells
**Cells found in connective tissues** that release histamine and other chemicals during inflammatory and allergic responses. ## Footnote *Mass cells* are involved in the rapid response to allergens.
38
# Define: antigen-presenting cells (APCs)
Cells that **process and present antigens to T cells**, including dendritic cells, macrophages, and B cells, essential for initiating an immune response. ## Footnote *Antigen-presenting cells* are crucial for activating T cells.
39
# Define: phagocytes
Cells that can **engulf and digest pathogens and debris** through the process of phagocytosis, including macrophages and neutrophils. ## Footnote *Phagocytes* play a key role in the body's defense against infection.
40
# Define: granulocytes
A category of white blood cells characterized by the **presence of granules in their cytoplasm**, including neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils. ## Footnote *Granulocytes* are important for the body's immune response.
41
# Define: megakaryocytes
**Large bone marrow cells** that produce platelets by shedding cytoplasmic fragments into the bloodstream. ## Footnote *Megakaryocytes* are crucial for maintaining normal blood clotting.
42
# Define: immunity
The ability of the body to **resist infections and diseases** through specific immune responses involving various cells and antibodies. ## Footnote *Immunity* can be acquired naturally or through vaccination.
43
# Define: innate immunity
The **body's first line of defense against pathogens**, consisting of physical barriers, immune cells, and chemical responses that act quickly and non-specifically. ## Footnote *Innate immunity* provides immediate protection against infections.
44
# Define: adaptive immunity
A **specific immune response that develops over time**, involving the activation of lymphocytes and the production of antibodies tailored to specific pathogens. ## Footnote *Adaptive immunity* provides long-lasting protection after exposure to a pathogen.
45
# Define: humoral immunity
A **component of adaptive immunity** that involves the **production of antibodies by B cells** to neutralize pathogens and toxins in body fluids. ## Footnote *Humoral immunity* is crucial for fighting extracellular pathogens.
46
# Define: cell-mediated immunity
A **component of adaptive immunity** that involves **T cells** targeting and destroying infected or cancerous cells directly. ## Footnote *Cell-mediated immunity* is important for eliminating intracellular pathogens.
47
# Define: antigen
Any substance that can **provoke an immune response**, typically by being recognized by antibodies or T cell receptors. ## Footnote The vaccine introduced a harmless *antigen* to stimulate an immune response.
48
# Define: antibody (immunoglobulin)
A **protein** produced by **B cells that specifically binds to antigens**, neutralizing them or marking them for destruction by other immune cells. ## Footnote *Antibodies* are crucial for identifying and neutralizing pathogens.
49
# Define: antigen receptor
Molecules found on the **surface of B and T cells** that recognize specific antigens and are essential for initiating an immune response. ## Footnote Each *antigen receptor* is unique to a specific antigen.
50
# Define: major histocompatibility complex (MHC)
A set of molecules displayed on cell surfaces that **present antigens to T cells**, crucial for recognizing self from non-self in the immune system. ## Footnote The *major histocompatibility complex (MHC)* is vital for T cell activation.
51
# Define: clonal selection
The process by which **specific B or T cells are activated** and proliferate in response to an antigen, leading to a tailored immune response. ## Footnote *Clonal selection* ensures a targeted response to infections.
52
# Define: complement system
A group of proteins that work together to **enhance the immune response by marking pathogens** for destruction and promoting inflammation. ## Footnote The *complement system* plays a critical role in innate immunity.
53
# Define: inflammation
A **localized immune response** characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain, aimed at eliminating pathogens and initiating healing. ## Footnote *Inflammation* is a natural response to injury or infection.
54
# Define: cytokines
**Signaling proteins** released by immune cells that mediate and regulate immunity, inflammation, and hematopoiesis. ## Footnote * cytokines* are critical for communication between immune cells.
55
# Define: chemokines
A **subset of cytokines** that specifically attract immune cells to sites of infection or injury, aiding in the immune response. ## Footnote *Chemokines* guide immune cells to areas where they are needed.
56
# Define: interleukins
A **group of cytokines** produced by leukocytes that facilitate communication between immune cells and play various roles in immune regulation. ## Footnote *Interleukins* are essential for coordinating the immune response.
57
# Define: interferons
Proteins produced by cells in **response to viral infections** that help inhibit viral replication and activate immune cells. ## Footnote *Interferons* are crucial for the body's defense against viruses.
58
# Define: tumor necrosis factor (TNF)
A **cytokine** involved in **systemic inflammation** that can induce cell death and is important in the immune response against tumors and infections. ## Footnote *Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)* is a key player in inflammatory responses.
59
# Define: apoptosis
A **programmed cell death process** that eliminates damaged or unnecessary cells without causing inflammation, playing a role in maintaining tissue homeostasis. ## Footnote *Apoptosis* is crucial for eliminating cells that could become cancerous.
60
# Define: opsonization
The process by which **pathogens are marked for destruction** by antibodies or complement proteins, enhancing their recognition and uptake by phagocytes. ## Footnote *Opsonization* improves the efficiency of the immune response.
61
# Define: phagocytosis
The process by which certain cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils, **engulf and digest pathogens and debris**. ## Footnote *Phagocytosis* is a vital mechanism for clearing infections.
62
# Define: autoimmune disease
A condition in which the **immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells and tissues**, leading to inflammation and damage. ## Footnote *Autoimmune diseases* can affect multiple organs and systems.
63
# Define: immunodeficiency
A condition in which the **immune system's ability to fight infections and diseases is compromised** or entirely absent. ## Footnote *Immunodeficiency* can be congenital or acquired, such as in HIV/AIDS.
64
# Define: hypersensitivity
An **exaggerated immune response to a harmless substance**, leading to tissue damage and inflammation, commonly seen in allergies. ## Footnote *Hypersensitivity* reactions can range from mild to life-threatening.
65
# Define: allergy
An **immune response to a substance** that is usually harmless, resulting in symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe anaphylaxis. ## Footnote The patient experienced an *allergy* to pollen, causing sneezing and itching.
66
# Define: anaphylaxis
A **severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction** that occurs rapidly and can cause difficulty breathing, swelling, and a drop in blood pressure. ## Footnote The patient required immediate treatment for *anaphylaxis* after exposure to a bee sting.
67
# Define: asthma
A chronic respiratory condition characterized by **inflammation and narrowing of the airways**, leading to wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. ## Footnote The patient uses an inhaler to manage their *asthma* symptoms.
68
# Define: rheumatoid arthritis
An autoimmune disorder that causes **chronic inflammation of the joints**, leading to pain, swelling, and potential joint damage. ## Footnote *Rheumatoid arthritis* can significantly impact a person's quality of life.
69
# Define: lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, SLE)
A chronic autoimmune disease that can **affect multiple organ systems**, characterized by inflammation and damage to various tissues. ## Footnote *Lupus* can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue and joint pain.
70
# Define: type 1 diabetes
An autoimmune condition where the **immune system attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas**, leading to high blood sugar levels. ## Footnote *Type 1 diabetes* requires lifelong insulin therapy for management.
71
# Define: celiac disease
An autoimmune disorder triggered by the **ingestion of gluten**, leading to damage in the small intestine and malabsorption of nutrients. ## Footnote Patients with *celiac disease* must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet.
72
# Define: multiple sclerosis
A chronic autoimmune disease that **affects the central nervous system**, causing demyelination of nerve fibers and leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. ## Footnote *Multiple sclerosis* can lead to mobility and coordination issues.
73
# Define: hashimoto’s thyroiditis
An autoimmune disorder in which the **immune system attacks the thyroid gland**, leading to hypothyroidism and a range of symptoms such as fatigue and weight gain. ## Footnote *Hashimoto’s thyroiditis* is a common cause of hypothyroidism.
74
# Define: graves’ disease
An autoimmune disorder that causes **hyperthyroidism due to the overstimulation of the thyroid gland**, leading to symptoms like weight loss and increased heart rate. ## Footnote *Graves’ disease* can cause bulging eyes due to inflammation.
75
# Define: HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
A **virus** that attacks the immune system by **destroying CD4+ T cells**, leading to progressive immunodeficiency and increased susceptibility to infections. ## Footnote *HIV* can progress to AIDS if not treated effectively.
76
# Define: AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)
A **late stage of HIV infection** characterized by a severely weakened immune system and the occurrence of opportunistic infections or cancers. ## Footnote *AIDS* is diagnosed when specific criteria are met, indicating severe immunodeficiency.
77
# Define: graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)
A condition that occurs when **transplanted immune cells attack the recipient's tissues**, commonly seen after bone marrow or stem cell transplants. ## Footnote *Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)* can lead to serious complications in transplant recipients.
78
# Define: lymphedema
A condition characterized by the **accumulation of lymph fluid in tissues**, leading to swelling, usually due to damage or obstruction of lymphatic vessels. ## Footnote *Lymphedema* often occurs after lymph node removal or radiation therapy.
79
# Define: lymphoma
A **type of cancer** that originates in the **lymphatic system**, characterized by the proliferation of lymphocytes and can be classified into Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. ## Footnote *Lymphoma* can cause swollen lymph nodes and other systemic symptoms.
80
# Define: Hodgkin’s lymphoma
A **type of lymphoma** characterized by the **presence of Reed-Sternberg cells**, often presenting with painless lymph node enlargement and fever. ## Footnote *Hodgkin's lymphoma* is generally considered more treatable than non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
81
# Define: non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
A diverse group of lymphomas that **do not have Reed-Sternberg cells**, varying in aggressiveness and treatment approaches. ## Footnote *Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma* can present with a wide range of symptoms depending on the subtype.
82
# Define: leukemia
A **cancer of the blood or bone marrow** characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal white blood cells. ## Footnote *Leukemia* can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, frequent infections, and easy bruising.
83
# Define: mononucleosis
An **infectious disease often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus**, characterized by fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. ## Footnote The patient was diagnosed with *mononucleosis* after presenting with classic symptoms.
84
# Define: complete blood count (CBC)
A common blood test that measures various **components of blood**, including red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets, used to assess overall health. ## Footnote The doctor ordered a *complete blood count (CBC)* to evaluate the patient's blood health.
85
# Define: differential white blood cell count
A blood test that measures the **percentage of different types of white blood cells in the blood**, providing insights into immune function and potential infections. ## Footnote The *differential white blood cell count* showed elevated neutrophils, indicating an infection.
86
# Define: lymph node biopsy
A procedure to **remove a sample of tissue from a lymph node** for examination, often used to diagnose infections or cancers. ## Footnote The surgeon performed a *lymph node biopsy* to investigate the cause of swelling.
87
# Define: bone marrow biopsy
A procedure that involves **collecting a sample of bone marrow**, usually from the hip bone, to diagnose blood disorders and cancers. ## Footnote A *bone marrow biopsy* was performed to assess for leukemia.
88
# Define: immunoassay
A laboratory technique used to **detect and quantify specific proteins or antibodies** in a sample, often used in diagnostics. ## Footnote The lab conducted an *immunoassay* to measure the patient's antibody levels.
89
# Define: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
A sensitive laboratory technique used to **detect and quantify proteins, antibodies, or hormones** in a sample, commonly used in research and diagnostics. ## Footnote *ELISA* tests are frequently used for diagnosing infections like HIV.
90
# Define: western blot
A laboratory method used to **detect specific proteins in a sample**, often used as a confirmatory test for HIV after an initial positive ELISA. ## Footnote The patient underwent a *western blot* test to confirm the HIV diagnosis.
91
# Define: flow cytometry
A technique used to **analyze the physical and chemical characteristics of cells or particles in a fluid** as they pass through a laser beam. ## Footnote *Flow cytometry* is often used to assess immune cell populations.
92
# Define: polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
A molecular biology technique used to **amplify specific DNA sequences**, allowing for the detection of genetic material from pathogens. ## Footnote *Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)* is widely used for diagnosing viral infections.
93
# Define: skin prick test
A diagnostic test used to **identify allergies** by introducing **small amounts of allergens into the skin** and observing for reactions. ## Footnote The *skin prick test* indicated an allergy to dust mites.
94
# Define: patch test
A diagnostic test used to **identify contact allergies** by applying **allergens to patches placed on the skin** for several days. ## Footnote The *patch test* revealed sensitivity to nickel.
95
# Define: allergy blood test
A blood test that measures the **level of specific antibodies (IgE)** produced in response to allergens, helping to diagnose allergies. ## Footnote The *allergy blood test* showed elevated IgE levels for certain foods.
96
# Define: autoantibody tests
Tests that **detect antibodies** produced by the immune system that mistakenly target and react with a person's own tissues. ## Footnote *Autoantibody tests* are used to diagnose autoimmune diseases.
97
# Define: immunoglobulin levels
Tests that measure the **concentration of immunoglobulins (antibodies) in the blood**, helping to assess immune function. ## Footnote The doctor ordered tests to evaluate the patient's *immunoglobulin levels*.
98
# Define: lymphoscintigraphy
A diagnostic imaging technique that uses **radioactive tracers to visualize the lymphatic system** and assess lymph flow. ## Footnote *Lymphoscintigraphy* was performed to evaluate the patient's lymphedema.
99
# Define: immunization (vaccination)
The process of **introducing a vaccine into the body** to stimulate an immune response and provide protection against specific diseases. ## Footnote *Immunization* is essential for preventing infectious diseases in the community.
100
# Define: immunotherapy
A treatment that uses the **body's immune system to fight diseases**, particularly cancer, by enhancing or restoring immune function. ## Footnote *Immunotherapy* has shown promise in treating various types of cancer.
101
# Define: monoclonal antibodies
**Laboratory-made antibodies** that are identical copies of a single type of antibody, used in treatments for various conditions, including cancer and autoimmune diseases. ## Footnote *Monoclonal antibodies* target specific antigens to enhance the immune response.
102
# Define: antihistamines
Medications that **block the action of histamine**, used to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. ## Footnote *Antihistamines* are commonly used to treat seasonal allergies.
103
# Define: corticosteroids
Synthetic drugs that **mimic the effects of hormones produced by the adrenal glands**, used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response. ## Footnote *Corticosteroids* are often prescribed for autoimmune conditions.
104
# Define: immunosuppressants
Medications that **suppress or reduce the strength of the immune system**, commonly used to prevent organ transplant rejection and treat autoimmune diseases. ## Footnote *Immunosuppressants* are crucial for transplant patients to avoid rejection.
105
# Define: biologic therapy
A type of treatment derived from living organisms or their products, used to **target specific components of the immune system** in diseases like cancer and autoimmune disorders. ## Footnote *Biologic therapy* has revolutionized the treatment of many chronic conditions.
106
# Define: chemotherapy
A type of cancer treatment that uses **drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells**, often affecting both cancerous and healthy cells. ## Footnote *Chemotherapy* can cause side effects such as nausea and fatigue.
107
# Define: radiation therapy
A cancer treatment that uses **high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors**, often used in conjunction with other therapies. ## Footnote *Radiation therapy* can be targeted to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
108
# Define: antiretroviral therapy (ART)
A **treatment for HIV** that involves taking a combination of medicines to control the virus and prevent the progression to AIDS. ## Footnote *Antiretroviral therapy (ART)* is essential for managing HIV infection.
109
# Define: stem cell transplant
A medical procedure that **replaces damaged or diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells**, often used to treat certain cancers and blood disorders. ## Footnote *Stem cell transplants* can provide new immune cells to patients with leukemia.
110
# Define: bone marrow transplant
A procedure that involves **replacing damaged or diseased bone marrow with healthy bone marrow from a donor**, used to treat various blood disorders. ## Footnote A *bone marrow transplant* can be life-saving for patients with aplastic anemia.
111
# Define: intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)
A treatment that involves **administering immunoglobulin (antibodies) through an intravenous line** to boost the immune system in certain conditions. ## Footnote *Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)* is used for patients with immunodeficiencies.
112
# Define: plasmapheresis
A medical procedure that **removes plasma from the blood** and replaces it with a substitute, used to treat autoimmune diseases and certain blood disorders. ## Footnote *Plasmapheresis* can help reduce harmful antibodies in patients with autoimmune conditions.