1. Briefly describe the process of inflammation in an area that has been traumatized.
- The inflammatory response occurs in three main stages. Firstly, there is vasodilation and increased blood vessel permeability, leading to an enlarged arteriole diameter and the entry of defensive proteins, such as antibodies and clotting factors from the blood into the injured area. This stage results in the characteristic signs of inflammation: heat, redness, and swelling. The second stage involves the emigration of phagocytes, where neutrophils adhere to blood vessel walls and traverse them to reach the damaged site. Monocytes follow, transforming into macrophages that engulf damaged tissues and microbes. The presence of leukocytes increases white blood cell count, and as macrophages die, pus forms. This pus formation is a common feature persisting until the infection subsides. Finally, the third stage focuses on tissue repair at the traumatized area.
2. Choose one type of Immunity (Innate and Humoral) and explain how its mechanism protects our body.
- Innate immunity relies on both external and chemical barriers as its primary defense mechanisms. The initial line of defense involves the skin and mucous membranes, acting as formidable barriers against pathogens. The skin's epidermis serves as a robust physical shield, hindering microbial entry, while its periodic shedding aids in removing microbes from the skin surface. Similarly, mucous membranes produce mucus, effectively trapping numerous microbes and foreign substances. The second line of defense in innate immunity comes into play when pathogens penetrate the physical and chemical barriers of the skin and mucous membranes. This defense line encompasses internal microbial substances, phagocytes, natural killer cells, inflammation, and fever.