The Immune System
- andrew0326lee
- Jul 23
- 2 min read
What Is the Immune System?
The immune system is a collection of biological structures and processes that recognize and fight off harmful substances. It works 24/7 to protect you from germs and keep your body in balance. When it works properly, you stay healthy. When it doesn’t, you may get sick more often, or develop conditions like allergies or autoimmune diseases.
What Parts Make Up the Immune System?
The immune system has many parts, including:
1. White Blood Cells (Leukocytes):
The main defenders of the body.
Types include lymphocytes (B cells and T cells) and phagocytes.
B cells make antibodies. T cells kill infected cells and help regulate immune responses.
2. Lymphatic System:
Includes lymph nodes, lymph vessels, and lymph fluid.
Filters and carries immune cells throughout the body.
Lymph nodes trap germs and are often where infections are first detected.
3. Bone Marrow:
The soft tissue inside bones where blood cells, including white blood cells, are made.
4. Thymus:
Where T cells mature before being released into the bloodstream.
5. Spleen:
Filters blood, removes damaged cells, and helps the body respond to infection.
6. Skin and Mucous Membranes:
These are the body’s first line of defense.
They act as physical barriers to stop germs from entering the body.
Why Is the Immune System Important?
The immune system is critical for survival. Its functions include:
Fighting infections from viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens.
Detecting and destroying cancer cells before they grow or spread.
Remembering past infections through immune memory, which allows for quicker responses next time (how vaccines work).
Maintaining balance by distinguishing between harmful invaders and your body’s own cells (when this fails, autoimmune diseases can occur).
Without a functioning immune system, even a small cold could become life-threatening.
Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board
