What is AIDS?
A life threatening condition caused by advanced HIV infection, where the immune system becomes severely weakened
What is an allergy?
An abnormal immune reaction to a substance that is normally harmless
What is anaphylaxis?
A severe, life-threatening reaction that can cause trouble breathing, swelling, and a drop in blood pressure
What is an antigen?
Any substance that triggers the immune system to produce an immune response, including antibodies
What is the natural desire to eat called?
Appetite
What is a bone marrow biopsy?
A procedure where a small sample of bone marrow is removed and examined to diagnose blood or bone marrow diseases
What is the basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms?
Cell
What is the medication used to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells?
Chemotherapy
What is HIV?
A virus that attacks the immune system, specifically CD4 cells, eventually leading to AIDS if untreated
What is Hodgkin’s disease?
A type of lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system) characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells
What is the name of the body’s defense network that protects against infections, diseases, and foreign substances?
Immune system
What is immunization?
The process of making a person resistant to an infectious disease, usually through vaccination
What is a lumbar puncture / spinal tap?
A procedure in which a needle is inserted into the lower back to collect cerebrospinal fluid for testing
What is lymph fluid?
A clear fluid that circulates in the lymphatic system, carrying immune cells and waste products
What are lymph nodes?
Small glands throughout the body that filter lymph fluid and help fight infection
What is lymphedema?
Swelling, usually in the arms or legs, caused by a blockage or problem in the lymphatic system
What is the name for the cancer that begins in the cells of the lymphatic system?
Lymphoma
What is metastatic lymph cancer?
Cancer of the lymphatic system that has spread from its original location to other parts of the body
What is mononucleosis?
An infectious illness (often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus) known for causing fatigue, fever, and swollen lymph nodes
What is an opportunistic infection?
An infection that occurs when the immune system is weakened, and organisms that don’t usually cause illness take advantage
What is another name for a medical test, treatment, or operation?
Procedure
What is radiation?
High-energy waves or particles that are used in medicine to diagnose or treat conditions, especially cancer
What is a radiation oncologist?
A doctor who specializes in treating cancer using radiation therapy
What are unwanted symptoms or reactions caused by medication or treatment?
Side effects
