Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

Able to develop an immune response. An immunocompetent body is able to recognize antigens and act against them. Immuno-competent is the opposite of immunodeficient.

Vaccination. Immunizations work by stimulating the immune system, the natural disease-fighting system of the body. The healthy immune system is able to recognize invading bacteria and viruses and produce substances (antibodies) to destroy or disable them. Immunizations prepare the immune system to ward off a disease. To immunize against viral diseases, the virus used in the vaccine has…

A blood disorder characterized by the destruction of blood platelets due to the presence of antiplatelet autoantibodies. (Autoantibodies are antibodies directed against the patient’s own cells, in this disorder, the patient’s own platelets.) Thrombocytopenia refers to a decrease in platelets (also known as thrombocytes). Purpura pertains to the visible hallmarks: purplish areas in the skin and mucous membranes (such as the…

A complex system that is responsible for distinguishing a person from everything foreign to him or her and for protecting his or her body against infections and foreign substances.

Any reaction by the immune system. For example, poison ivy can cause an immune response in the skin characterized by inflammation with tiny blisters, and itching. Also, a flu shot is designed to produce an immune response by stimulating the production of antibodies against the flu virus.

Protected against infection, usually by the presence of antibodies.

Brand name for sumatriptan, a triptan drug for the treatment of migraine.

An IM medication is given by needle into the muscle. This is as opposed to a medication that is given by a needle into the skin (intradermal) , just below the skin (subcutaneous) or into a vein (intravenous).

A perception that occurs when a sensory stimulus is present but is incorrectly perceived and misinterpreted, such as hearing the wind as someone crying. Everyone may occasionally experience an illusion. However, illusions are extraordinarily common in people suffering from schizophrenia.

The upper part of the pelvic bone, which forms the receptacle of the hip.