No bodily system operates with more complexity than the immune system. A litany of cells and organs play significant roles in contributing to the body’s ability to adapt and be resilient under stress. Most of these functions involuntarily through the guidance of the central nervous system.
The immune system protects the body from potentially harmful substances by recognizing and responding to antigens. Antigens represent substances (usually proteins) on the surface of cells, viruses, fungi, or bacteria. The immune system recognizes and destroys substances which contain antigens.
The immune system recognizes when certain foreign invaders appear dangerous. Humans possess three types of immunity: innate, adaptive, and passive. Innate (naturally occurring) immunity comes programmed into babies at birth. Innate immunity provides a general type of protection. An example involves the skin acting as a barrier to block germs from entering the body. Adaptive (active) immunity develops throughout a person’s life. Adaptive immunity builds through exposure to diseases. Passive (borrowed) immunity involves temporarily borrowing protection from another source such as when an infant borrows from a mother through the consumption of breast milk.
Many cells and organs work together to protect the body. The primary organs involved in immunity include the thymus gland, spleen, adenoids, tonsils, lymphatic system, and bone marrow. The immune system ramps up whenever antigens and foreign substances trigger a defense warning. The immune system and dependent organs attack germs and helps keep people healthy.
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6701 W. 121st Street | Suite 200
Overland Park, KS 66209
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10454 S. Ridgeview Rd.
Olathe, KS 66061
913-689-2333
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4121 W. 83rd St. | Suite 147
Prairie Village, KS 66208
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10803 E State Rte 350 | Suite B
Raytown MO 64138
816-356-9313
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338 Southwest Main St.
Lee's Summit, MO 64063
816-600-5483
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17027 Bel-Ray Blvd.
Belton, MO 64012
816-425-7015
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622 SW US 40 Hwy
Blue Springs, MO 64014
816-815-7007
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1520 N. Church Rd | Suite C
Liberty, MO 64068
816-831-3600
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