Immune System Disorders Chapter 24

What you need to know! Why Helper T cells are central to immune responses

Disorders Our immune system is our primary line of defense against invading organisms Immune Deficiencies (disorders) include: Allergies Autoimmune diseases Immunodeficiency diseases

Allergies Allergies are when your immune system thinks harmless invaders (dust, pollen, pet hair) are dangerous The immune system turns on to battle the invading particles Inflammatory Response Coughing, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, etc. Antihistamines can help supress allergic responses

Asthma Asthma is an extreme allergy The air passageways in the lungs swell, decreasing air flow If not treated, it can be deadly Triggered by allergies, exercise, stress, smoke, etc.

Autoimmune Diseases The immune system functions by identifying invading particles If the immune system can’t tell the difference between your cells and invading cells: Autoimmune disorders are when your immune system attacks your own cells Diabetes mellitus (type I), lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis

Immunodeficiency Disease Immunodeficiency = weak immune system Sometimes the immune system fails to develop properly AIDS can also cause an immunodeficiency

AIDS Caused by HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) HIV attacks your helper T cells, breaking down your immune system’s ability to react to invaders Transmission: STD Blood transfers Mother to child