NUR 229 Lecture 37: Normal Immunity
Document Summary
The collective, coordinated response of cells and molecules of the immune system is called the immune response. Pathogen any microorganism capable of producing disease, e. g. virus, bacteria, fungus. Fluid continually seeps out of capillaries into surrounding tissues; capillaries reabsorb about 85% of fluid, leaving about 15% behind. Over course of a day, the remaining fluid would total as much as 4 liters enough to cause massive swelling and even death. One of the roles of lymphatic system is to absorb this fluid and return it to bloodstream. Specialized lymphatic vessels in small intestines absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins. Lymph nodes and other lymphatic organs filter lymph (fluid inside lymphatic vessels) to remove microorganisms and foreign particles. Lymphocytes and macrophages in white pulp screen passing blood for foreign antigens; also, phagocytic cells in sinuses ingest and destroy microorganisms. Macrophages in sinuses remove and digest worn-out rbcs and imperfect platelets.
