Module 5: Diseases of the Lymphatic and Immune Systems

Question 1

Receptor uniqueness in humans

Answer 1

Each person has a genetically unique surface cell receptor present on all cells of the body in the cell membranes

Question 2

Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) (4)

Answer 2

1) Self vs. Non-self recognition

2) Enables immune system to determine which ells are body cells and which are foreign

3) Cells can also display through MHC complex if there is an abnormal process happening inside the cell

4) Cytotoxic T-Cells recognize this complex presentation and destroy the cell

Question 3

Graft Rejection (4)

Answer 3

1) Rejection of a transplant organ

2) Tissue grafts and organ transplants are usually from another person’s body

3) MHC on the surface of the transplant organ is recognized as foreign by the host

4) Immunosuppressant drugs
a) Suppress the immune system to enable the acceptance of the transplant organ

Question 4

Autoimmune disease

Answer 4

When lymphocytes launch an attack against a person’s own body tissues, it is called an autoimmune disease

Question 5

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) (5)

Answer 5

1) Systemic

2) T-cells attack the synovial lining inside the joints

3) T-cells produce interleukins, which cause inflammation inside joint cavities

4) Wears away cartilage and bone

5) Tissues and ligaments grow weaker leading to deformities in fingers and hands

Question 6

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) (4)

Answer 6

1) Antibodies attack and/or prevent formation of myelin sheath around nerve cells

2) Neurons cannot transmit impulses as quickly

3) Neurons can be damaged

4) Leads to muscular weakness

Question 7

Allergic reactions

Answer 7

1) Antibodies are produced against mild antigens, called allergens

2) Allergens: pollen, dust mites, environmental factors

3) Many people have a genetic predisposition to allergic reactions

Question 8

Allergic reaction symptoms (1)

Answer 8

1) Symptoms are often uncomfortable but mild
a) Red/watery eyes
b) Sneezing
c) Runny nose
d) Headaches

Question 9

Anaphylaxis (2)

Answer 9

1) Excessive immune response to allergen

2) Severe, life-threatening allergic reaction
a) Insect bite
b) Pathogen
c) Drug
d) Food

Question 10

Anaphylaxis - what happens (2)

Answer 10

1) Antibodies are overproduced by B-cells

2) Circulating antibodies increase capillary permeability throughout the body
a) Hives
b) Narrowed respiratory pathways
c) Difficulty breathing

Question 11

Anaphylactic Shock (4)

Answer 11

1) Person’s capillaries become extremely dilated

2) Severe blood pressure drop

3) Heart failure, breathing cessation

4) Death if no intervention

Question 12

Anaphylactic Shock Intervention (3)

Answer 12

1) Epinephrine auto injector (EpiPen)

2) When reaction begins, EpiPen is injected into thigh

3) Releases epinephrine into the bloodstream
a) Helps to offset the symptoms of anaphylaxis
b) Constricts blood vessels
c) Raises blood pressure

Question 13

Lymphedema (2)

Answer 13

1) Edema means localed swelling of too much fluid in the tissues

2) Lymphedema is a form of edema where lymphatic system is not functioning properly to return fluid back into general circulation
a) Lymph vessel blocked
b) Lymph nodes removed for testing

Question 14

Lymphedema process (3)

Answer 14

1) Interstitial fluid slowly accumulates in the limb

2) Slowly becomes swollen and distended

3) Can become serious condition if not treated
a) Vulnerable to infection
b) Connective tissues and vessels become permanently stretched

Question 15

Tonsillitis (3)

Answer 15

1) Inflammation of the tonsils

2) Tonsils become infected and appear white and red

3) Bacterial or viral infection