Introduction
Inflammation is caused by the immune system in reaction to an injury or illness. When germs invade the body, immune cells such as neutrophils and macrophages are directed to the damaged region to engulf and eliminate the pathogens (Sompayrac, 2023). In Rebecca’s body, these immune cells release inflammatory mediators, histamine, and prostaglandins, allowing more immune cells and fluids to reach the wounded area. This is what causes redness, warmth, swelling, and discomfort, which are all signs of inflammation.
Neutrophils
Neutrophils are white blood cells that aid Rebecca’s immune system in the fight against bacterial illnesses. They are among the first immune cells to arrive at an infection location. They engulf and kill bacteria by a variety of methods, including the release of enzymes and poisonous chemicals that kill the pathogens (Sompayrac, 2023). Neutrophils secrete inflammatory mediators, which draw additional immune cells to the area of infection and aid in immune response coordination.
Lymphatic System
The immune system’s lymphatic system contains lymph nodes as well as other lymphoid tissues such as the spleen and thymus. These organs filter and process lymph, a fluid that flows throughout the body and aids in the transportation of immune cells to areas of infection (Sompayrac, 2023). T cells and B lymphocytes, which assist to recognize and eliminate infections, are found in lymph nodes. They also generate antibodies capable of neutralizing germs and viruses. Rebecca’s infection is indicated by enlarged lymph nodes near her throat.
Fever
Rebecca’s fever is caused by the release of pyrogen from immune cells or by the bacterium or virus itself. Pyrogen attaches to receptors in the hypothalamus, the part of the brain in charge of managing body temperature. Furthermore, they trigger the hypothalamus to raise the body’s internal temperature. This is why, during a fever, the body temperature rises. Fever can aid in the treatment of a bacterial infection by making the body’s environment less inviting to pathogens and by activating certain immune cells and proteins that contest bacteria (Sompayrac, 2023). Fever also reduces the reproduction rate of some germs, making it more difficult for the bacteria to create an illness.
Reference
Sompayrac, L. (2023). How the immune system works. Wiley-Blackwell.