Lecture Notes: Understanding Immunity

Key Terms

Immunocompetent

• Normal functioning immune system.
• Less susceptible to infections.

Immunocompromised

• Refers to individuals with a less than normal functioning immune system.
• Includes conditions such as being immunodeficient, immunocompromised, and immunosuppressed.

• Higher risk for infections, including opportunistic infections.

Opportunistic Infections

• Infections caused by microorganisms that typically do not affect individuals with a normal immune system.

Causes of Immunocompromised States

• Active cancer treatment.
• Organ transplants.
• Advanced or untreated HIV infection.
• Use of certain drugs or active treatments.

Types of Immunity

Active Immunity

• Natural Active Immunity

  • Arises from natural exposure to a pathogen.
  • Body recognizes the pathogen and develops immunity.

• Artificial Active Immunity

  • Obtained through vaccination.
  • Examples: Varicella, Hepatitis vaccines.
  • Lab-created to mimic the pathogen and teach the body to develop immunity.

Passive Immunity

• Natural Passive Immunity

  • Maternal antibodies passed from mother to infant.
  • Distributed via colostrum in breast milk.
  • Provides early immune support to infants.

• Artificial Passive Immunity

  • Lab-created monoclonal antibodies.
  • Recognize and combat foreign substances.