The resistance of an individual possesses by virtue of his genetic and constitutional make up is

KGMU 2024

Applied Microbiology & Infection control

Easy

Appeared in: KGMU 2024

Explanation

Innate immunity is the inborn resistance against infections that an individual possesses right from birth.
It is determined by the genetic and constitutional makeup of the individual.
This type of immunity is non-specific, meaning it acts against a wide range of pathogens without prior exposure.
It serves as the first line of defense for the body, including physical barriers like skin and physiological barriers like body temperature and pH.

Option A: Active immunity is developed by the body in response to an antigen, either through natural infection or vaccination. It is not present from birth based on genetics.
Option B: Passive immunity is acquired by receiving pre-formed antibodies from another source (e.g., mother to fetus, antibody infusion). It is temporary and not produced by the individual's own body.
Option C: Adaptive immunity is a broad term for immunity that is acquired during life. It is specific to particular pathogens and develops after exposure, which is the opposite of the innate resistance described.

Visual 1: Flowchart - A flowchart illustrating the classification of the immune system. It would start with 'Immunity' and branch into 'Innate' and 'Adaptive'. 'Adaptive' would further branch into 'Active' and 'Passive', and each of those would branch into 'Natural' and 'Artificial', providing examples for each category.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Types of Immunity as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the different types of immunity is fundamental for nurses in patient education, particularly regarding vaccinations (artificial active immunity) and maternal-child health (natural passive immunity).
Nurses encounter patients with compromised innate immunity (e.g., burn victims with a broken skin barrier) or adaptive immunity (e.g., immunocompromised patients), requiring specific infection control measures.
What if a newborn has a genetic immunodeficiency affecting their innate immune cells? The nurse would need to implement strict reverse isolation protocols because the infant lacks the basic, non-specific defenses against common microbes, making them highly susceptible to severe infections from birth.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the keywords in the question stem: 'resistance', 'genetic', and 'constitutional make up'.
These keywords strongly point towards an inborn or inherent quality.
Evaluate each option based on this understanding.
Option A, 'Active immunity', is acquired through exposure, so it's incorrect.
Option B, 'Passive immunity', is transferred, not inherent, so it's incorrect.
Option C, 'Adaptive immunity', is a general term for acquired immunity, so it's also incorrect.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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