Physiologic Function
adaptive immunity
a·dapt·ive im·mu·ni·ty
Subclass of:
Immune response
Definitions related to adaptive immunity:
  • Protection from an infectious disease agent that is mediated by B- and T- LYMPHOCYTES following exposure to specific antigen, and characterized by IMMUNOLOGIC MEMORY. It can result from either previous infection with that agent or vaccination (IMMUNITY, ACTIVE), or transfer of antibody or lymphocytes from an immune donor (IMMUNIZATION, PASSIVE).
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
  • The ability of the body to learn to fight specific infections after being exposed to the germs that cause them.
    Harvard Dictionary of Health Terms
    Harvard Medical Publishing, 2011
  • One of the body's lines of defense (immune system) involves white blood cells (leukocytes) that travel through the bloodstream and into tissues, searching for and attacking microorganisms and other invaders.
    Merck Manuals
    Merck & Co., Inc., 2025
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.