Massachusetts State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What term refers to the body's ability to resist infections?

1. Immunity

2. Pathogenicity

3. Resistance

4. Inoculation

The correct answer is: Immunity

The term that refers to the body's ability to resist infections is "immunity." Immunity is a complex biological defense mechanism that helps the body to recognize and fight off pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It can be classified into two general types: innate immunity, which is the natural barrier and immediate response to pathogens, and adaptive immunity, which develops over time and is specific to particular pathogens. Understanding immunity is crucial in esthetics, as it directly relates to skin health and recovery from various skin conditions. For instance, a compromised immune system can lead to an increased susceptibility to skin infections and slower healing processes. In contrast, pathogenicity describes the ability of an organism to cause disease, while resistance is a broader term that can refer to the body's overall capability to withstand various stresses, including disease, but does not specifically denote the immune system. Inoculation refers to the introduction of an antigenic substance into the body to stimulate immunity but is not synonymous with the body's inherent ability to fight infections.