Question

Identify the disorders described.


immune system overreacts to an antigen


part of the immune system does not function properly


the body's immune system attacks its healthy cells, mistaking them for pathogens


masses of cells form and steal nutrients from healthy cells

Answer 1

1) Allergy (hypersensitivity) — the immune system overreacts to a harmless antigen (e.g., pollen, food, bee venom).
2) Immunodeficiency — part of the immune system does not function properly (e.g., primary immunodeficiencies, AIDS).
3) Autoimmune disease — the immune system attacks the body’s own healthy cells (e.g., type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus).
4) Cancer (neoplasm/tumor) — abnormal masses of cells form and divert nutrients from healthy tissue (malignant tumors).