Defense
Defense (Medicine)
Defense (pronounced: /dɪˈfɛns/) in the context of medicine refers to the body's mechanisms to protect itself from harmful substances such as pathogens or toxins. The term originates from the Latin word defensum, which means to ward off.
Types of Defense Mechanisms
There are two main types of defense mechanisms in the body: Innate Immunity and Adaptive Immunity.
Innate Immunity
Innate immunity, also known as non-specific immunity, is the first line of defense in the body. It includes physical barriers such as the skin and mucous membranes, as well as immune cells like Neutrophils and Macrophages.
Adaptive Immunity
Adaptive immunity, also known as specific immunity, is the second line of defense. It involves the activation of Lymphocytes, which include B cells and T cells. These cells are capable of recognizing specific antigens and mounting a targeted immune response.
Related Terms
- Immune System: The complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against attacks by "foreign" invaders.
- Antigen: A substance that triggers an immune response, especially the production of antibodies.
- Antibody: A protein produced by B cells in response to an antigen.
- Pathogen: A bacterium, virus, or other microorganism that can cause disease.
See Also
- Inflammation: A localized physical condition in which part of the body becomes reddened, swollen, hot, and often painful, especially as a reaction to injury or infection.
- Autoimmunity: A condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Defense
- Wikipedia's article - Defense
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