Immune system

Summary

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The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells and proteins that defends the body against infection, whilst protecting the body’s own cells.

The immune system keeps a record of every germ (microbe) it has ever defeated so it can recognise and destroy the microbe quickly if it enters the body again.

Abnormalities of the immune system can lead to allergic diseases, immunodeficiencies and autoimmune disorders.

This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:

Department of Health logo
Department of Health logo
Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA)
Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA)

This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:

Department of Health logo
Department of Health logo
Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA)
Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA)

Reviewed on: 18-07-2022