Bone Marrow Transplant and Immunity
A bone marrow transplant is a medical procedure in which healthy bone marrow cells are transplanted into a person’s body to replace damaged or diseased bone marrow. Bone marrow is the soft, spongy tissue inside bones that produces blood cells. The new bone marrow cells can help restore the patient’s immune system, allowing them to fight off infections and diseases.
Active vs. Passive Immunity
When it comes to immunity, there are two types: active and passive. Active immunity occurs when the body produces its own antibodies to fight off an infection or disease. This type of immunity is usually acquired through vaccinations or exposure to a virus or bacteria. Passive immunity, on the other hand, occurs when antibodies are transferred from one person to another. This type of immunity is usually acquired through a blood transfusion or a bone marrow transplant.
Is a Bone Marrow Transplant Active or Passive Immunity?
A bone marrow transplant is considered passive immunity because it involves transferring antibodies from one person to another. The donor’s healthy bone marrow cells contain antibodies that can help protect the recipient from infections and diseases. However, these antibodies will eventually be replaced by the recipient’s own immune system as they produce their own antibodies.