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Immune Deficiency Disorders

Western Diagnosis

In basic terms, the role of the immune system is to identify those things that naturally belong or are not harmful to the body, and those that are foreign. Once a foreign "invader" (called an antigen) is detected, the immune system then neutralizes or destroys it. The immune system then has the amazing ability to remember the antigen through two basic means known as cell-mediated immunity and humoral immunity.

In cell-mediated immunity, white blood cells called T lymphocytes, identify and then destroy cancerous cells, viruses and micro-organisms like bacteria and fungi.

Humoral immunity involves the production of antibodies. These are not cells, but special proteins whose chemical structures are formed to match the surfaces of specific antigens. When they encounter their specific antigens, antibodies either damage the invasive cells or alert the wihite blood cells to attack.

In both cell mediated and humoral immunity, white blood cells are the body's first line of defense. They are larger than red blood cells, move by themselves in the bloodstream and are able to pass through cell walls. These qualities enable them to move quickly to the site of infection or injury and begin repair.

Keeping the immune system functioning properly means avoiding those factors which cause weakness. Some examples are: stress, the overuse of antibiotics and other drugs, exposure to environmental pollutants, inadequate nutrition and/or poor living habits.

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The information provided on this site is provided for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice. Should you have any serious health concerns, you should always check with your health care practitioner before self-administering any natural remedy.

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