It is a complex set of Biological mechanisms whose function is to protect the body from foreign agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and other pathogens.
The immune system is made up of a variety of specialized cells, proteins, and tissues that work together to maintain the body's health. Some of the key components include:
- Lymphocytes: Lymphocytes are a type of white cell important to the immune system. There are two main types of lymphocytes: T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes. T lymphocytes help control the immune response and kill infected or cancer cells. B lymphocytes produce antibodies that identify and destroy invaders.
- macrophages: Macrophages are immune cells found throughout the body and have the ability to engulf (engulf and destroy) invaders.
- dendritic cells: Dendritic cells are specialized immune cells that are responsible for detecting and presenting invaders to T lymphocytes.
- Natural Killer (NK) cells: NK cells are a type of white cell that can kill infected or cancer cells without the need for a specific antibody signal.
- T helper cells: are a type of T lymphocyte that helps activate and coordinate the immune response, including the activation of B cells and cytotoxic T cells.
- Cytotoxic T cells: Cytotoxic T cells are a type of T lymphocyte that help kill infected or malignant cells, such as cancer cells.
- eosinophils: Eosinophils are a type of white cell that is responsible for fighting parasites and allergens, as well as reducing inflammation.
- Basophils: Basophils are a type of white cell that is responsible for releasing histamine and other substances in response to infections or allergies.
- neutrophils: Neutrophils are a type of white cell that is responsible for phagocytizing and destroying bacteria, fungi and viruses.
- regulatory T cells: These cells are a type of specialized T lymphocyte that help regulate the immune response and prevent autoimmunity (when the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body).
- plasma cells: Plasma cells are cells derived from B lymphocytes that produce antibodies.
- memory cells: These cells are a subset of T and B lymphocytes that have been exposed to a pathogen in the past. During a future infection, these memory cells are able to respond more quickly and efficiently.
Some of the serological markers that are altered in primary immunodeficiencies include:
- IgG: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is the most abundant class of antibodies in the body and is essential to protect against bacterial and viral infections. A low IgG level may indicate a primary immunodeficiency.
- IgA: Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is an antibody found in the mucosa of the respiratory and intestinal tracts, where it plays an important role in preventing infection. A low IgA level may indicate a primary immunodeficiency.
- IgM: Immunoglobulin M (IgM) is an antibody produced in response to acute infection and plays an important role in defense against bacteria and viruses. A low IgM level may indicate a primary immunodeficiency.
- Complement: Complement is a system of proteins in blood plasma that helps destroy invaders. A low complement level may indicate a primary immunodeficiency.
- T and B lymphocytes: T and B lymphocytes are essential cells for a normal immune system. A low number of T or B lymphocytes may indicate a primary immunodeficiency.
Early detection of pathologies of the immune system is very important in order to guarantee the best possible treatment and result. For this reason, it is important to be aware of any signs or symptoms that may indicate a problem with the immune system, such as frequent infections or illnesses, and to seek medical advice as soon as possible.
It is important to highlight that early detection of primary immunodeficiency is essential for effective treatment and a better quality of life for patients. If you suspect your child may have primary immunodeficiency, it's important to see a doctor who specializes in immunology for testing and a diagnosis.
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