Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): Immune System Phenomena

The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against infection and disease. There are several immune system phenomena that are important in healthcare, including:

Immunity: Immunity refers to the body’s ability to resist infection or disease. There are two types of immunity: innate immunity, which is the body’s first line of defense against infection, and acquired immunity, which is immunity that is developed after exposure to a particular pathogen.

Allergy: Allergy refers to an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, such as pollen or pet dander. Allergies can cause symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and difficulty breathing.

Autoimmunity: Autoimmunity refers to the immune system attacking the body’s own tissues, leading to symptoms such as inflammation and organ damage. Examples of autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

Immunodeficiency: Immunodeficiency refers to a deficiency or malfunction of the immune system, leading to an increased susceptibility to infections. Examples of immunodeficiency diseases include HIV/AIDS and severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID).

Understanding immune system phenomena is important in healthcare, as it can help to inform the development of treatments and therapies for immune-related conditions. If you have questions about immune system phenomena, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional.