Immunity - Chapter 49

Active Immunity

• Definition: Patient's own antibody production.
• Pharmacokinetics:
  • Involves live or attenuated (weakened or dead) microorganisms.
  • Non-toxic recombinant DNA molecules can be synthesized in labs.
• Mechanism:
  • Stimulates Body’s Antibody Production: Against specific microorganisms.
  • Can occur naturally (during actual infection) or artificially (via toxoid or vaccine).
• Prototypes:
  • DTaP Vaccine: Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (whooping cough caused by Bordetella bacterium).
    • Affects children with violent cough, dyspnea.
    • Damages respiratory mucosa, paralyzes cilia.
  • Flu Vaccine: Protects against Influenza A1, A1, B.
  • Meningococcal Vaccine: For meningitis.
• Use of Agents:
  • Provides immunity to disease.
  • Time required for body to develop antibodies.
  • Vaccination schedules mandate timelines for administration.

Passive Immunity

• Definition: Transfer of antibodies to the patient.
• Pharmacokinetics:
  • Involves immunoglobulins from humans or animals.
  • Bypasses host immune system, providing immediate antibodies.
• Mechanism:
  • Faster response than active immunity due to immediate antibody availability.
• Types:
  • Natural: Maternal transmission through breast milk or placenta.
  • Artificial: Immunization or short-term immunoglobulin.
• Prototypes:
  • Antivenin: For snake, spider, scorpion bites.
  • Digoxin Immune Fab: Treats life-threatening digoxin overdose.
  • Rho(D) Immunoglobulin (RhoGAM):
    • For Rh-negative mothers exposed to Rh-positive blood.
    • Prevents immune response against Rh-positive fetus.
    • Administration typically after first delivery or during subsequent pregnancies.
• Use of Agents:
  • Prevent disease, provide rapid antibody response.
  • Timelines for administration vary by agent or disease.
  • Labs include CBC, titers, antigen, antibody testing, and blood typing for Rh factor.