9781422280300

Words to Understand

allergen: a substance that isn’t harmful but causes the body to respond as if it was, causing an allergic reaction. antibodies: proteins produced by the body to mark substances as foreign or toxic so they can be destroyed. antigen: any substance to which the body produces antibodies. atopy: a genetic tendency to allergic reactions. autoantibodies: antibodies that target the body’s own healthy cells for destruction. B cells: a type of white blood cells that produces antibodies. conjunctivitis: inflammation of the mucus protecting the eye. enzymes: chemical substances, usually proteins, that perform tasks in the body. histamine: a chemical released by certain white blood cells. microbes: bacteria and other microscopic living creatures. mucus: a thick fluid produced by the body to protect inner surfaces and trap pathogens. pathogens: microbes that can cause disease. T cells: white blood cells that perform one of several specialized functions in the immune system.

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