Immunity and Allergy

Excerpts from previous naturopathy assignments HLT60512. Defining Immunity and Allergy

Immunity

Mosby’s Medical Dictionary defines Immunity as: ‘the quality of being insusceptible to or unaffected by a particular disease or condition. Kinds of immunity are acquired immunity, active immunity, and passive immunity’ (Mosby’s Medical Dictionary, 9th edition., 2009).

Allergy

Collins Dictionary of Biology defines Allergy as:

‘The overreaction of immune response of the body to minute traces of foreign substances (antigens). The reaction is usually visible in the form of rashes, itching, breathing difficulties, etc…Antibodies react against antigens and cause local damage with the release of histamine…’ (Hale, Saunders, & Margham , 2005)

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Describe the role of prostaglandins in conditions that are inflammatory in nature?

Prostaglandins can repair or damage. Inflammation is only damaging to the degree of stage and severity (General adaptation syndrome model). Cuts to the skin cause white blood cells to arrive along with prostaglandins (thromboxane) stimulating constriction and clotting of platelets to stop bleeding. Prostaglandins also form clots where they should not be forming however such as in atherosclerotic conditions where inflammation causes clotting and plaque (Chemistry Elmhurst University, 2003).

The gastrointestinal tract reaction to prostaglandins is to inhibit acid synthesis and increase secretion of protective mucus. Blood flow to the kidneys increases with more prostaglandins. There is a homeostatic role for prostaglandins however excessive prostaglandins leads to tissue damage.

Heather Indiana Rose

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