Diseases of Immunity
OVERVIEW
Diseases of the immune system take many forms, including hypersensitivity reactions, autoimmune disorders, and immunodeficiency states. Hypersensitivity reactions occur as one of four types (types I–IV). Autoimmune diseases are the result of a failure in the immune system to recognize self-antigens, resulting in production of antibodies that react against normal components of cells. Most of the autoimmune diseases are associated with one or more specific antibodies, which can be identified by laboratory tests to aid in diagnosis. Immunodeficiency states can be hereditary or acquired. The concepts of immunity are also important in regard to transplantation efforts. This Lecture will discuss hypersensitivity reactions only.
