The Mesothelioma SOS Glossary - Immune Function

The immune function is the production of cells that fight disease and infection. The immune system is the system of cells and organs which are specialized to protect the body from outside biological influences. The immune system protects against bacteria, viruses, infections, cancerous cells and foreign substances. The immune function can be weakened if the immune system is weak, allowing these pathogens to invade the body and grow. The immune system also works to survey tumor cells, and if the immune system is weakened the body is more likely to allow cancerous cells to grow. When the body is invaded by pathogens, the immune response is typically divided into two sections. Innate immunity is comprised of hereditary components that provide an immediate defense to ward of pathogens. Adaptive immunity is the body's developed immunity to specific pathogens. The body works to develop specific antibodies and T-cells which are designed specifically to ward off invasion. This response however, is not immediate and is not effective at preventing an initial invasion, yet remains in the body to prevent later infection. Additionally, adaptive immunity will aid the body in healing long-lasting infections.