Immune System, Childbirth, and Common Infections: A Detailed Look
The Immune System: A Detailed Look
The macrophages alert the immune system when there is a foreign agent in the following way: by exposing fragments of the antigen on the surface of their cells, they alert the immune system.
Differentiating B Lymphocytes and T Lymphocytes
The B lymphocytes circulate in search of specific antigens in the body. When antibodies unite with the antigens to eliminate them, they send signals to the T lymphocytes to stop multiplying, and the immune response against that particular agent stops.
Active Immunity
Active immunity is when the immune system is activated, either by the entry of a foreign agent (natural active immunity) or through a vaccine (artificial active immunity).
Passive Immunity
Passive immunity is acquired through the entry of specific antibodies into the organism, as the individual’s immune system does not act in the manufacture of antibodies but receives them from the exterior. Examples include:
- Serum (Artificial Passive Immunity): When antibodies are passed from a person previously exposed to an antigen.
- Maternal Antibodies (Natural Passive Immunity): When antibodies are passed from the mother to the son during pregnancy.
Whey
A preparation with antibodies extracted from the blood of a person who was previously exposed to an antigen.
Vaccine
A preparation that contains the causative agent of a disease in a weakened or dead state, or an antigen capable of triggering an immune response.
Central Nervous System
The central nervous system is comprised of the brain and spinal cord. To protect it from damage, the nerve impulse travels through the sensory pathways to the spinal cord. It then imparts to the motor pathway, reaching the muscle and causing a response.
Childbirth
Childbirth consists of the expulsion of the fetus from inside the mother’s body, either spontaneously or induced. There are two types: normal and cesarean. The main symptoms are the loss of the mucous plug, rupture of the amniotic sac, and rhythmic contractions.
Cesarean Section
A cesarean section is a surgical intervention performed under general or local anesthesia. It consists of making incisions in the abdominal wall and the uterus to extract the placenta and the baby. The causes for this type of delivery include:
- If the baby is in a transverse or breech position and cannot be changed.
- If there is fetal distress, indicated by an alteration in the fetal heart rate.
- In case of placenta previa.
The baby’s first stool is called meconium.
Abortion
Abortion is the interruption of pregnancy or elimination of the product of conception. There are two types of abortions: spontaneous and induced. Abortion is only legally considered for people who have been abused, are ill, or have a life-threatening pregnancy.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae, also known as gonococcus. Besides being transmitted through sexual intercourse, it can also be self-produced. Many women present no symptoms. In men, it produces acute urethritis. Consequences include lesions in the cervix, discomfort when urinating, and sterility in 20% of cases.
Acquired Syphilis
Acquired syphilis is produced by the spirochete Treponema pallidum. It is contracted during sexual intercourse. Symptoms include lesions on the skin and other organs. Consequences include convulsions, paralysis, deafness, and speech disorders.