Chapter 25, Problem 12TQ

Summary Introduction

To describe:

Increased body temperature or fever is considered as part of the innate immune response of the body. Fever is uncomfortable and it can be dangerous if it is very high. Fever can be treated with over-the-counter medicines such as acetaminophen, naproxen, aspirin, or ibuprofen. What are the major possible negative effects of this treatment?

Concept introduction:

The innate immune system is considered as the second line of defense in the immune system. The innate immune system consists of immune cells and proteins that kill, disable, or isolate infectious pathogens. It reacts to foreign particles or cells while entering into the body. For example, phagocytes (macrophages and neutrophils) engulf and destroy invading pathogens.