Case Study: Defending Your Defenses<\/h1>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_4807\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"291\"]![\"17.1.2](\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/acchumanbio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/152\/2023\/10\/mitchell-luo-ymo_yC_N_2o-unsplash-scaled-3.jpg\")
Figure 17.1.2 Hakeem is concerned about his health - he has been unusually tired, has been losing weight and most recently, found an unexpected lump on the side of his neck.<\/em>[\/caption]\r\n\r\nTwenty-six-year-old Hakeem wasn\u2019t feeling well. He was more tired than usual, dragging through his workdays despite going to bed earlier, and napping on the weekends. He didn\u2019t have much of an appetite, and had started losing weight. When he pressed on the side of his neck, like the doctor is doing in Figure 17.1.1, he noticed an unusual lump.\r\n\r\nHakeem went to his doctor, who performed a physical exam and determined that the lump was a swollen lymph node. Lymph nodes are part of the immune system, and they will often become enlarged when the body is fighting off an infection. Dr. Hayes thinks that the swollen lymph node and fatigue could be signs of a viral or bacterial infection, although he is concerned about Hakeem\u2019s lack of appetite and weight loss. All of those symptoms combined can indicate a type of cancer called lymphoma. An infection, however, is a more likely cause, particularly in a young person like Hakeem. Dr. Hayes prescribes an antibiotic in case Hakeem has a bacterial infection, and advises him to return in a few weeks if his lymph node does not shrink, or if he is not feeling better.\r\n\r\nHakeem returns a few weeks later. He is not feeling better and his lymph node is still enlarged. Dr. Hayes is concerned, and orders a biopsy of the enlarged lymph node. A lymph node biopsy for suspected lymphoma often involves the surgical removal of all or part of a lymph node. This helps to determine whether the tissue contains cancerous cells.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_4808\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"400\"]![\"17.1.3](\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/acchumanbio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/152\/2023\/10\/Lymph-node-biopsy-by-US-Army-in-Africa-on-Flickr-2.jpg\")
Figure 17.1.3 Surgeons performing a lymph node biopsy.<\/em>[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThe initial results of the biopsy indicate that Hakeem does have lymphoma. Although lymphoma is more common in older people, young adults and even children can get this disease. There are many types of lymphoma, with the two main types being Hodgkin's lymphoma<\/a> and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma<\/a>. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), in turn, has many subtypes. The subtype depends on several factors, including which cell types are affected. Some subtypes of NHL, for example, affect immune system cells called B cells, while others affect different immune system cells called T cells.\r\n\r\nDr. Hayes explains to Hakeem that it is important to determine which type of lymphoma he has, in order to choose the best course of treatment. Hakeem\u2019s biopsied tissue will be further examined and tested to see which cell types are affected, as well as which specific cell-surface proteins \u2014 called antigens \u2014 are present. This should help identify his specific type of lymphoma.\r\n\r\nAs you read this chapter, you will learn about the functions of the immune system, and the specific roles that its cells and organs \u2014 such as B and T cells and lymph nodes \u2014 play in defending the body. At the end of this chapter, you will learn what type of lymphoma Hakeem has and what some of his treatment options are, including treatments that make use of the biochemistry of the immune system to fight cancer with the immune system itself.\r\n\r\n\r\nChapter Overview: Immune System<\/span><\/h1>\r\n<\/header>\r\n\r\n\r\nIn this chapter, you will learn about the [pb_glossary id=\"4242\"]immune system[\/pb_glossary] \u2014 the system that defends the body against infections and other causes of disease, such as cancerous cells. Specifically, you will learn about:\r\n\r\n \t- How the immune system identifies normal cells of the body as \u201cself\u201d and [pb_glossary id=\"5799\"]pathogens[\/pb_glossary] and damaged cells as \u201cnon-self.\u201d<\/li>\r\n \t
- The two major subsystems of the general immune system: the innate immune system \u2014 which provides a quick, but non-specific response \u2014 and the adaptive immune system, which is slower, but provides a specific response that often results in long-lasting immunity.<\/li>\r\n \t
- The specialized immune system that protects the [pb_glossary id=\"5915\"]brain[\/pb_glossary] and [pb_glossary id=\"3010\"]spinal cord[\/pb_glossary], called the neuroimmune system.<\/li>\r\n \t
- The organs, cells, and responses of the innate immune system, which includes physical barriers (such as [pb_glossary id=\"3521\"]skin[\/pb_glossary] and [pb_glossary id=\"4571\"]mucus[\/pb_glossary]), chemical and biological barriers, inflammation, activation of the complement system of molecules, and non-specific cellular responses (such as [pb_glossary id=\"1680\"]phagocytosis[\/pb_glossary]).<\/li>\r\n \t
- The lymphatic system \u2014 which includes white blood cells called lymphocytes, lymphatic vessels (which transport a fluid called lymph), and organs (such as the spleen, tonsils, and lymph nodes) \u2014 and its important role in the adaptive immune system.<\/li>\r\n \t
- Specific cells of the immune system and their functions, including B cells, T cells, plasma cells, and natural killer cells.<\/li>\r\n \t
- How the adaptive immune system can generate specific and often long-lasting immunity against pathogens through the production of [pb_glossary id=\"5659\"]antibodies[\/pb_glossary].<\/li>\r\n \t
- How vaccines work to generate immunity.<\/li>\r\n \t
- How cells in the immune system detect and kill cancerous cells.<\/li>\r\n \t
- Some strategies that pathogens employ to evade the immune system.<\/li>\r\n \t
- Disorders of the immune system, including allergies, autoimmune diseases (such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis), and immunodeficiency resulting from conditions such as HIV infection.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\nAs you read the chapter, think about the following questions:\r\n
\r\n \t- What are the functions of lymph nodes?<\/li>\r\n \t
- What are B and T cells? How do they relate to lymph nodes?<\/li>\r\n \t
- What are cell-surface antigens? How do they relate to the immune system and to cancer?<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n
Attributions<\/h2>\r\nFigure 17.1.1<\/strong>\r\n\r\nLymph nodes\/Is it a Cold or the Flu\u00a0<\/a> by Lee Health<\/a> on Vimeo is used under Vimeo's Terms of Service<\/a> (https:\/\/vimeo.com\/terms#licenses).\r\n\r\nFigure 17.1.2<\/strong>\r\n\r\nmitchell-luo-ymo_yC_N_2o-unsplash<\/a> [photo] by Mitchell Luo<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a> is used under the Unsplash License<\/a> (https:\/\/unsplash.com\/license).\r\n\r\nFigure 17.1.3<\/strong>\r\n\r\nLymph node biopsy<\/a> by US Army Africa<\/a> on Flickr<\/a> is used under a\u00a0 CC BY 2.0<\/a> (https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/) license.\r\nReferences<\/h2>\r\n
Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Hodgkin's lymphoma [online article]. MayoClinic.org. https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/hodgkins-lymphoma\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20352646<\/p>\r\n
Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma [online article]. MayoClinic.org. https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/non-hodgkins-lymphoma\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20375680<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n ","rendered":"
<\/p>\n![\"17.1.1](\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/acchumanbio\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/152\/2019\/06\/Lymph-nodes-2.png\")
Figure 17.1.1 Health practitioners will often check your lymph nodes for unusual lumps.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\nCase Study: Defending Your Defenses<\/h1>\n<\/div>\nFigure 17.1.2 Hakeem is concerned about his health – he has been unusually tired, has been losing weight and most recently, found an unexpected lump on the side of his neck.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nTwenty-six-year-old Hakeem wasn\u2019t feeling well. He was more tired than usual, dragging through his workdays despite going to bed earlier, and napping on the weekends. He didn\u2019t have much of an appetite, and had started losing weight. When he pressed on the side of his neck, like the doctor is doing in Figure 17.1.1, he noticed an unusual lump.<\/p>\n
Hakeem went to his doctor, who performed a physical exam and determined that the lump was a swollen lymph node. Lymph nodes are part of the immune system, and they will often become enlarged when the body is fighting off an infection. Dr. Hayes thinks that the swollen lymph node and fatigue could be signs of a viral or bacterial infection, although he is concerned about Hakeem\u2019s lack of appetite and weight loss. All of those symptoms combined can indicate a type of cancer called lymphoma. An infection, however, is a more likely cause, particularly in a young person like Hakeem. Dr. Hayes prescribes an antibiotic in case Hakeem has a bacterial infection, and advises him to return in a few weeks if his lymph node does not shrink, or if he is not feeling better.<\/p>\n
Hakeem returns a few weeks later. He is not feeling better and his lymph node is still enlarged. Dr. Hayes is concerned, and orders a biopsy of the enlarged lymph node. A lymph node biopsy for suspected lymphoma often involves the surgical removal of all or part of a lymph node. This helps to determine whether the tissue contains cancerous cells.<\/p>\nFigure 17.1.3 Surgeons performing a lymph node biopsy.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nThe initial results of the biopsy indicate that Hakeem does have lymphoma. Although lymphoma is more common in older people, young adults and even children can get this disease. There are many types of lymphoma, with the two main types being Hodgkin’s lymphoma<\/a> and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma<\/a>. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), in turn, has many subtypes. The subtype depends on several factors, including which cell types are affected. Some subtypes of NHL, for example, affect immune system cells called B cells, while others affect different immune system cells called T cells.<\/p>\nDr. Hayes explains to Hakeem that it is important to determine which type of lymphoma he has, in order to choose the best course of treatment. Hakeem\u2019s biopsied tissue will be further examined and tested to see which cell types are affected, as well as which specific cell-surface proteins \u2014 called antigens \u2014 are present. This should help identify his specific type of lymphoma.<\/p>\n
As you read this chapter, you will learn about the functions of the immune system, and the specific roles that its cells and organs \u2014 such as B and T cells and lymph nodes \u2014 play in defending the body. At the end of this chapter, you will learn what type of lymphoma Hakeem has and what some of his treatment options are, including treatments that make use of the biochemistry of the immune system to fight cancer with the immune system itself.<\/p>\n
\n\n\nChapter Overview: Immune System<\/span><\/h1>\n<\/header>\n\nIn this chapter, you will learn about the immune system \u2014 the system that defends the body against infections and other causes of disease, such as cancerous cells. Specifically, you will learn about:<\/p>\n
\n- How the immune system identifies normal cells of the body as \u201cself\u201d and pathogens<\/a> and damaged cells as \u201cnon-self.\u201d<\/li>\n
- The two major subsystems of the general immune system: the innate immune system \u2014 which provides a quick, but non-specific response \u2014 and the adaptive immune system, which is slower, but provides a specific response that often results in long-lasting immunity.<\/li>\n
- The specialized immune system that protects the brain<\/a> and spinal cord<\/a>, called the neuroimmune system.<\/li>\n
- The organs, cells, and responses of the innate immune system, which includes physical barriers (such as skin<\/a> and mucus<\/a>), chemical and biological barriers, inflammation, activation of the complement system of molecules, and non-specific cellular responses (such as phagocytosis<\/a>).<\/li>\n
- The lymphatic system \u2014 which includes white blood cells called lymphocytes, lymphatic vessels (which transport a fluid called lymph), and organs (such as the spleen, tonsils, and lymph nodes) \u2014 and its important role in the adaptive immune system.<\/li>\n
- Specific cells of the immune system and their functions, including B cells, T cells, plasma cells, and natural killer cells.<\/li>\n
- How the adaptive immune system can generate specific and often long-lasting immunity against pathogens through the production of antibodies<\/a>.<\/li>\n
- How vaccines work to generate immunity.<\/li>\n
- How cells in the immune system detect and kill cancerous cells.<\/li>\n
- Some strategies that pathogens employ to evade the immune system.<\/li>\n
- Disorders of the immune system, including allergies, autoimmune diseases (such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis), and immunodeficiency resulting from conditions such as HIV infection.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
As you read the chapter, think about the following questions:<\/p>\n
\n- What are the functions of lymph nodes?<\/li>\n
- What are B and T cells? How do they relate to lymph nodes?<\/li>\n
- What are cell-surface antigens? How do they relate to the immune system and to cancer?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Attributions<\/h2>\n
Figure 17.1.1<\/strong><\/p>\nLymph nodes\/Is it a Cold or the Flu\u00a0<\/a> by Lee Health<\/a> on Vimeo is used under Vimeo’s Terms of Service<\/a> (https:\/\/vimeo.com\/terms#licenses).<\/p>\nFigure 17.1.2<\/strong><\/p>\nmitchell-luo-ymo_yC_N_2o-unsplash<\/a> [photo] by Mitchell Luo<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a> is used under the Unsplash License<\/a> (https:\/\/unsplash.com\/license).<\/p>\nFigure 17.1.3<\/strong><\/p>\nLymph node biopsy<\/a> by US Army Africa<\/a> on Flickr<\/a> is used under a\u00a0 CC BY 2.0<\/a> (https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/) license.<\/p>\nReferences<\/h2>\n
Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Hodgkin’s lymphoma [online article]. MayoClinic.org. https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/hodgkins-lymphoma\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20352646<\/p>\n
Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma [online article]. MayoClinic.org. https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/non-hodgkins-lymphoma\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20375680<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
definition<\/span><\/div>
Chapter Overview: Immune System<\/span><\/h1>\r\n<\/header>\r\n\r\n\r\nIn this chapter, you will learn about the [pb_glossary id=\"4242\"]immune system[\/pb_glossary] \u2014 the system that defends the body against infections and other causes of disease, such as cancerous cells. Specifically, you will learn about:\r\n\r\n \t- How the immune system identifies normal cells of the body as \u201cself\u201d and [pb_glossary id=\"5799\"]pathogens[\/pb_glossary] and damaged cells as \u201cnon-self.\u201d<\/li>\r\n \t
- The two major subsystems of the general immune system: the innate immune system \u2014 which provides a quick, but non-specific response \u2014 and the adaptive immune system, which is slower, but provides a specific response that often results in long-lasting immunity.<\/li>\r\n \t
- The specialized immune system that protects the [pb_glossary id=\"5915\"]brain[\/pb_glossary] and [pb_glossary id=\"3010\"]spinal cord[\/pb_glossary], called the neuroimmune system.<\/li>\r\n \t
- The organs, cells, and responses of the innate immune system, which includes physical barriers (such as [pb_glossary id=\"3521\"]skin[\/pb_glossary] and [pb_glossary id=\"4571\"]mucus[\/pb_glossary]), chemical and biological barriers, inflammation, activation of the complement system of molecules, and non-specific cellular responses (such as [pb_glossary id=\"1680\"]phagocytosis[\/pb_glossary]).<\/li>\r\n \t
- The lymphatic system \u2014 which includes white blood cells called lymphocytes, lymphatic vessels (which transport a fluid called lymph), and organs (such as the spleen, tonsils, and lymph nodes) \u2014 and its important role in the adaptive immune system.<\/li>\r\n \t
- Specific cells of the immune system and their functions, including B cells, T cells, plasma cells, and natural killer cells.<\/li>\r\n \t
- How the adaptive immune system can generate specific and often long-lasting immunity against pathogens through the production of [pb_glossary id=\"5659\"]antibodies[\/pb_glossary].<\/li>\r\n \t
- How vaccines work to generate immunity.<\/li>\r\n \t
- How cells in the immune system detect and kill cancerous cells.<\/li>\r\n \t
- Some strategies that pathogens employ to evade the immune system.<\/li>\r\n \t
- Disorders of the immune system, including allergies, autoimmune diseases (such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis), and immunodeficiency resulting from conditions such as HIV infection.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\nAs you read the chapter, think about the following questions:\r\n
\r\n \t- What are the functions of lymph nodes?<\/li>\r\n \t
- What are B and T cells? How do they relate to lymph nodes?<\/li>\r\n \t
- What are cell-surface antigens? How do they relate to the immune system and to cancer?<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n
Attributions<\/h2>\r\nFigure 17.1.1<\/strong>\r\n\r\nLymph nodes\/Is it a Cold or the Flu\u00a0<\/a> by Lee Health<\/a> on Vimeo is used under Vimeo's Terms of Service<\/a> (https:\/\/vimeo.com\/terms#licenses).\r\n\r\nFigure 17.1.2<\/strong>\r\n\r\nmitchell-luo-ymo_yC_N_2o-unsplash<\/a> [photo] by Mitchell Luo<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a> is used under the Unsplash License<\/a> (https:\/\/unsplash.com\/license).\r\n\r\nFigure 17.1.3<\/strong>\r\n\r\nLymph node biopsy<\/a> by US Army Africa<\/a> on Flickr<\/a> is used under a\u00a0 CC BY 2.0<\/a> (https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/) license.\r\nReferences<\/h2>\r\n
Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Hodgkin's lymphoma [online article]. MayoClinic.org. https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/hodgkins-lymphoma\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20352646<\/p>\r\n
Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma [online article]. MayoClinic.org. https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/non-hodgkins-lymphoma\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20375680<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n ","rendered":"
<\/p>\nFigure 17.1.1 Health practitioners will often check your lymph nodes for unusual lumps.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\nCase Study: Defending Your Defenses<\/h1>\n<\/div>\nFigure 17.1.2 Hakeem is concerned about his health – he has been unusually tired, has been losing weight and most recently, found an unexpected lump on the side of his neck.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nTwenty-six-year-old Hakeem wasn\u2019t feeling well. He was more tired than usual, dragging through his workdays despite going to bed earlier, and napping on the weekends. He didn\u2019t have much of an appetite, and had started losing weight. When he pressed on the side of his neck, like the doctor is doing in Figure 17.1.1, he noticed an unusual lump.<\/p>\n
Hakeem went to his doctor, who performed a physical exam and determined that the lump was a swollen lymph node. Lymph nodes are part of the immune system, and they will often become enlarged when the body is fighting off an infection. Dr. Hayes thinks that the swollen lymph node and fatigue could be signs of a viral or bacterial infection, although he is concerned about Hakeem\u2019s lack of appetite and weight loss. All of those symptoms combined can indicate a type of cancer called lymphoma. An infection, however, is a more likely cause, particularly in a young person like Hakeem. Dr. Hayes prescribes an antibiotic in case Hakeem has a bacterial infection, and advises him to return in a few weeks if his lymph node does not shrink, or if he is not feeling better.<\/p>\n
Hakeem returns a few weeks later. He is not feeling better and his lymph node is still enlarged. Dr. Hayes is concerned, and orders a biopsy of the enlarged lymph node. A lymph node biopsy for suspected lymphoma often involves the surgical removal of all or part of a lymph node. This helps to determine whether the tissue contains cancerous cells.<\/p>\nFigure 17.1.3 Surgeons performing a lymph node biopsy.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nThe initial results of the biopsy indicate that Hakeem does have lymphoma. Although lymphoma is more common in older people, young adults and even children can get this disease. There are many types of lymphoma, with the two main types being Hodgkin’s lymphoma<\/a> and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma<\/a>. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), in turn, has many subtypes. The subtype depends on several factors, including which cell types are affected. Some subtypes of NHL, for example, affect immune system cells called B cells, while others affect different immune system cells called T cells.<\/p>\nDr. Hayes explains to Hakeem that it is important to determine which type of lymphoma he has, in order to choose the best course of treatment. Hakeem\u2019s biopsied tissue will be further examined and tested to see which cell types are affected, as well as which specific cell-surface proteins \u2014 called antigens \u2014 are present. This should help identify his specific type of lymphoma.<\/p>\n
As you read this chapter, you will learn about the functions of the immune system, and the specific roles that its cells and organs \u2014 such as B and T cells and lymph nodes \u2014 play in defending the body. At the end of this chapter, you will learn what type of lymphoma Hakeem has and what some of his treatment options are, including treatments that make use of the biochemistry of the immune system to fight cancer with the immune system itself.<\/p>\n
\n\n\nChapter Overview: Immune System<\/span><\/h1>\n<\/header>\n\nIn this chapter, you will learn about the immune system \u2014 the system that defends the body against infections and other causes of disease, such as cancerous cells. Specifically, you will learn about:<\/p>\n
\n- How the immune system identifies normal cells of the body as \u201cself\u201d and pathogens<\/a> and damaged cells as \u201cnon-self.\u201d<\/li>\n
- The two major subsystems of the general immune system: the innate immune system \u2014 which provides a quick, but non-specific response \u2014 and the adaptive immune system, which is slower, but provides a specific response that often results in long-lasting immunity.<\/li>\n
- The specialized immune system that protects the brain<\/a> and spinal cord<\/a>, called the neuroimmune system.<\/li>\n
- The organs, cells, and responses of the innate immune system, which includes physical barriers (such as skin<\/a> and mucus<\/a>), chemical and biological barriers, inflammation, activation of the complement system of molecules, and non-specific cellular responses (such as phagocytosis<\/a>).<\/li>\n
- The lymphatic system \u2014 which includes white blood cells called lymphocytes, lymphatic vessels (which transport a fluid called lymph), and organs (such as the spleen, tonsils, and lymph nodes) \u2014 and its important role in the adaptive immune system.<\/li>\n
- Specific cells of the immune system and their functions, including B cells, T cells, plasma cells, and natural killer cells.<\/li>\n
- How the adaptive immune system can generate specific and often long-lasting immunity against pathogens through the production of antibodies<\/a>.<\/li>\n
- How vaccines work to generate immunity.<\/li>\n
- How cells in the immune system detect and kill cancerous cells.<\/li>\n
- Some strategies that pathogens employ to evade the immune system.<\/li>\n
- Disorders of the immune system, including allergies, autoimmune diseases (such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis), and immunodeficiency resulting from conditions such as HIV infection.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
As you read the chapter, think about the following questions:<\/p>\n
\n- What are the functions of lymph nodes?<\/li>\n
- What are B and T cells? How do they relate to lymph nodes?<\/li>\n
- What are cell-surface antigens? How do they relate to the immune system and to cancer?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Attributions<\/h2>\n
Figure 17.1.1<\/strong><\/p>\nLymph nodes\/Is it a Cold or the Flu\u00a0<\/a> by Lee Health<\/a> on Vimeo is used under Vimeo’s Terms of Service<\/a> (https:\/\/vimeo.com\/terms#licenses).<\/p>\nFigure 17.1.2<\/strong><\/p>\nmitchell-luo-ymo_yC_N_2o-unsplash<\/a> [photo] by Mitchell Luo<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a> is used under the Unsplash License<\/a> (https:\/\/unsplash.com\/license).<\/p>\nFigure 17.1.3<\/strong><\/p>\nLymph node biopsy<\/a> by US Army Africa<\/a> on Flickr<\/a> is used under a\u00a0 CC BY 2.0<\/a> (https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/) license.<\/p>\nReferences<\/h2>\n
Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Hodgkin’s lymphoma [online article]. MayoClinic.org. https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/hodgkins-lymphoma\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20352646<\/p>\n
Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma [online article]. MayoClinic.org. https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/non-hodgkins-lymphoma\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20375680<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
definition<\/span><\/div>
- \r\n \t
- How the immune system identifies normal cells of the body as \u201cself\u201d and [pb_glossary id=\"5799\"]pathogens[\/pb_glossary] and damaged cells as \u201cnon-self.\u201d<\/li>\r\n \t
- The two major subsystems of the general immune system: the innate immune system \u2014 which provides a quick, but non-specific response \u2014 and the adaptive immune system, which is slower, but provides a specific response that often results in long-lasting immunity.<\/li>\r\n \t
- The specialized immune system that protects the [pb_glossary id=\"5915\"]brain[\/pb_glossary] and [pb_glossary id=\"3010\"]spinal cord[\/pb_glossary], called the neuroimmune system.<\/li>\r\n \t
- The organs, cells, and responses of the innate immune system, which includes physical barriers (such as [pb_glossary id=\"3521\"]skin[\/pb_glossary] and [pb_glossary id=\"4571\"]mucus[\/pb_glossary]), chemical and biological barriers, inflammation, activation of the complement system of molecules, and non-specific cellular responses (such as [pb_glossary id=\"1680\"]phagocytosis[\/pb_glossary]).<\/li>\r\n \t
- The lymphatic system \u2014 which includes white blood cells called lymphocytes, lymphatic vessels (which transport a fluid called lymph), and organs (such as the spleen, tonsils, and lymph nodes) \u2014 and its important role in the adaptive immune system.<\/li>\r\n \t
- Specific cells of the immune system and their functions, including B cells, T cells, plasma cells, and natural killer cells.<\/li>\r\n \t
- How the adaptive immune system can generate specific and often long-lasting immunity against pathogens through the production of [pb_glossary id=\"5659\"]antibodies[\/pb_glossary].<\/li>\r\n \t
- How vaccines work to generate immunity.<\/li>\r\n \t
- How cells in the immune system detect and kill cancerous cells.<\/li>\r\n \t
- Some strategies that pathogens employ to evade the immune system.<\/li>\r\n \t
- Disorders of the immune system, including allergies, autoimmune diseases (such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis), and immunodeficiency resulting from conditions such as HIV infection.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\nAs you read the chapter, think about the following questions:\r\n
- \r\n \t
- What are the functions of lymph nodes?<\/li>\r\n \t
- What are B and T cells? How do they relate to lymph nodes?<\/li>\r\n \t
- What are cell-surface antigens? How do they relate to the immune system and to cancer?<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n
Attributions<\/h2>\r\nFigure 17.1.1<\/strong>\r\n\r\nLymph nodes\/Is it a Cold or the Flu\u00a0<\/a> by Lee Health<\/a> on Vimeo is used under Vimeo's Terms of Service<\/a> (https:\/\/vimeo.com\/terms#licenses).\r\n\r\nFigure 17.1.2<\/strong>\r\n\r\nmitchell-luo-ymo_yC_N_2o-unsplash<\/a> [photo] by Mitchell Luo<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a> is used under the Unsplash License<\/a> (https:\/\/unsplash.com\/license).\r\n\r\nFigure 17.1.3<\/strong>\r\n\r\nLymph node biopsy<\/a> by US Army Africa<\/a> on Flickr<\/a> is used under a\u00a0 CC BY 2.0<\/a> (https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/) license.\r\n
References<\/h2>\r\n
Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Hodgkin's lymphoma [online article]. MayoClinic.org. https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/hodgkins-lymphoma\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20352646<\/p>\r\n
Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma [online article]. MayoClinic.org. https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/non-hodgkins-lymphoma\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20375680<\/p>\r\n \r\n\r\n ","rendered":"
<\/p>\n
Figure 17.1.1 Health practitioners will often check your lymph nodes for unusual lumps.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n \nCase Study: Defending Your Defenses<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n
Figure 17.1.2 Hakeem is concerned about his health – he has been unusually tired, has been losing weight and most recently, found an unexpected lump on the side of his neck.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Twenty-six-year-old Hakeem wasn\u2019t feeling well. He was more tired than usual, dragging through his workdays despite going to bed earlier, and napping on the weekends. He didn\u2019t have much of an appetite, and had started losing weight. When he pressed on the side of his neck, like the doctor is doing in Figure 17.1.1, he noticed an unusual lump.<\/p>\n
Hakeem went to his doctor, who performed a physical exam and determined that the lump was a swollen lymph node. Lymph nodes are part of the immune system, and they will often become enlarged when the body is fighting off an infection. Dr. Hayes thinks that the swollen lymph node and fatigue could be signs of a viral or bacterial infection, although he is concerned about Hakeem\u2019s lack of appetite and weight loss. All of those symptoms combined can indicate a type of cancer called lymphoma. An infection, however, is a more likely cause, particularly in a young person like Hakeem. Dr. Hayes prescribes an antibiotic in case Hakeem has a bacterial infection, and advises him to return in a few weeks if his lymph node does not shrink, or if he is not feeling better.<\/p>\n
Hakeem returns a few weeks later. He is not feeling better and his lymph node is still enlarged. Dr. Hayes is concerned, and orders a biopsy of the enlarged lymph node. A lymph node biopsy for suspected lymphoma often involves the surgical removal of all or part of a lymph node. This helps to determine whether the tissue contains cancerous cells.<\/p>\n
Figure 17.1.3 Surgeons performing a lymph node biopsy.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n The initial results of the biopsy indicate that Hakeem does have lymphoma. Although lymphoma is more common in older people, young adults and even children can get this disease. There are many types of lymphoma, with the two main types being Hodgkin’s lymphoma<\/a> and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma<\/a>. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), in turn, has many subtypes. The subtype depends on several factors, including which cell types are affected. Some subtypes of NHL, for example, affect immune system cells called B cells, while others affect different immune system cells called T cells.<\/p>\n
Dr. Hayes explains to Hakeem that it is important to determine which type of lymphoma he has, in order to choose the best course of treatment. Hakeem\u2019s biopsied tissue will be further examined and tested to see which cell types are affected, as well as which specific cell-surface proteins \u2014 called antigens \u2014 are present. This should help identify his specific type of lymphoma.<\/p>\n
As you read this chapter, you will learn about the functions of the immune system, and the specific roles that its cells and organs \u2014 such as B and T cells and lymph nodes \u2014 play in defending the body. At the end of this chapter, you will learn what type of lymphoma Hakeem has and what some of his treatment options are, including treatments that make use of the biochemistry of the immune system to fight cancer with the immune system itself.<\/p>\n
\n\n\n Chapter Overview: Immune System<\/span><\/h1>\n<\/header>\n
\nIn this chapter, you will learn about the immune system \u2014 the system that defends the body against infections and other causes of disease, such as cancerous cells. Specifically, you will learn about:<\/p>\n
- \n
- How the immune system identifies normal cells of the body as \u201cself\u201d and pathogens<\/a> and damaged cells as \u201cnon-self.\u201d<\/li>\n
- The two major subsystems of the general immune system: the innate immune system \u2014 which provides a quick, but non-specific response \u2014 and the adaptive immune system, which is slower, but provides a specific response that often results in long-lasting immunity.<\/li>\n
- The specialized immune system that protects the brain<\/a> and spinal cord<\/a>, called the neuroimmune system.<\/li>\n
- The organs, cells, and responses of the innate immune system, which includes physical barriers (such as skin<\/a> and mucus<\/a>), chemical and biological barriers, inflammation, activation of the complement system of molecules, and non-specific cellular responses (such as phagocytosis<\/a>).<\/li>\n
- The lymphatic system \u2014 which includes white blood cells called lymphocytes, lymphatic vessels (which transport a fluid called lymph), and organs (such as the spleen, tonsils, and lymph nodes) \u2014 and its important role in the adaptive immune system.<\/li>\n
- Specific cells of the immune system and their functions, including B cells, T cells, plasma cells, and natural killer cells.<\/li>\n
- How the adaptive immune system can generate specific and often long-lasting immunity against pathogens through the production of antibodies<\/a>.<\/li>\n
- How vaccines work to generate immunity.<\/li>\n
- How cells in the immune system detect and kill cancerous cells.<\/li>\n
- Some strategies that pathogens employ to evade the immune system.<\/li>\n
- Disorders of the immune system, including allergies, autoimmune diseases (such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis), and immunodeficiency resulting from conditions such as HIV infection.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nAs you read the chapter, think about the following questions:<\/p>\n
- \n
- What are the functions of lymph nodes?<\/li>\n
- What are B and T cells? How do they relate to lymph nodes?<\/li>\n
- What are cell-surface antigens? How do they relate to the immune system and to cancer?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Attributions<\/h2>\n
Figure 17.1.1<\/strong><\/p>\n
Lymph nodes\/Is it a Cold or the Flu\u00a0<\/a> by Lee Health<\/a> on Vimeo is used under Vimeo’s Terms of Service<\/a> (https:\/\/vimeo.com\/terms#licenses).<\/p>\n
Figure 17.1.2<\/strong><\/p>\n
mitchell-luo-ymo_yC_N_2o-unsplash<\/a> [photo] by Mitchell Luo<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a> is used under the Unsplash License<\/a> (https:\/\/unsplash.com\/license).<\/p>\n
Figure 17.1.3<\/strong><\/p>\n
Lymph node biopsy<\/a> by US Army Africa<\/a> on Flickr<\/a> is used under a\u00a0 CC BY 2.0<\/a> (https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/) license.<\/p>\n
References<\/h2>\n
Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Hodgkin’s lymphoma [online article]. MayoClinic.org. https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/hodgkins-lymphoma\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20352646<\/p>\n
Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma [online article]. MayoClinic.org. https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/non-hodgkins-lymphoma\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20375680<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
definition<\/span><\/div>
- How the immune system identifies normal cells of the body as \u201cself\u201d and pathogens<\/a> and damaged cells as \u201cnon-self.\u201d<\/li>\n