Immune response

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Immune system structures

Phagocytosis

SIGNS OF INFLAMMATION:

• Redness in the area
• Pain in the area
• Swelling of the affected area
• Warmth of the affected area
• Pus (sometimes)

In many cases, however, there are no noticeable symptoms.

Additional symptoms may include:

• Fever
• General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling (malaise)
• Muscle aches
• Agitation or confusion

TESTS

During an infection, a complete blood count (CBC) usually shows increased numbers of white blood cells. A blood differential count may reveal a high percentage of phagocytes (white blood cells that eat other cells), meaning that the body is responding to a need to fight infection.

If a problem is suspected, other tests may be performed to determine complement levels and the levels of specific immunoglobulins (antibodies).

THERAPIES

Usually, the action of the immune response is desired. In some cases, suppression of the immune system is necessary -- for example, in the treatment of autoimmune disorders or allergies. This is usually accomplished by administering corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive medications.

Suppression of the immune system may be an undesired side-effect of certain treatments or disorders.

Vaccination (immunization) is a way to trigger the immune response. Small doses of an antigen, such as dead or weakened live viruses, are given to activate immune system "memory" (activated B lymphocytes and sensitized T lymphocytes). Memory allows your body to react quickly and efficiently to future exposures. As noted above, this means that if you are exposed to a microorganism, it will be destroyed before it can cause illness.

Passive immunization involves transfusion of antiserum, which contains antibodies that are formed by another person or animal. It provides immediate protection against an antigen, but does not provide long-lasting protection. Gamma globulin and equine (horse) tetanus antitoxin are examples of passive immunization.

COMPLICATIONS

An efficient immune response protects against many diseases and disorders. Inefficient immune response allows diseases to develop. Inadequate, inappropriate, or excessive immune response causes immune system disorders.

Complications related to altered immune response include:

• Disease development
• Allergy or hypersensitivity
• Anaphylaxis
• Autoimmune disorders
• Blood transfusion reaction
• Immunodeficiency disorders
• Serum sickness
• Transplant rejection
• Graft versus host disease

Review Date: 08/03/2005
Reviewed By: Frederic F. Little, M.D., Department of Allergy and Pulmonary/Critical Care Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.