Main forms of adaptive immunity
In immunology, several types of body defense are distinguished. Active immunity is generated by the individual after recovering from an infection or following vaccination, when the body produces its own antibodies.
In contrast, passive immunity does not require endogenous synthesis of protective proteins. It is divided into two main categories:
- Artificial: occurs upon the administration of medical products, such as immune sera or immunoglobulins.
- Natural: occurs via the transplacental route when maternal IgG class antibodies are transferred to the fetus and protect newborns.
Emergency prophylaxis and RIG
For emergency protection before the virus invades the central nervous system, post-exposure prophylaxis is performed. In cases of severe injuries—such as multiple wounds, deep bites, or lesions of the face, neck, and hands—the patient must be administered rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) alongside the rabies vaccine. This ensures the immediate establishment of passive immunity. For intestinal infections, passive protection using immunoglobulins is also used according to epidemiological indications, providing protection for approximately 3 months.
Differences from vaccination
The main difference between the passive approach and active immunoprophylaxis lies in the source of antibodies. Vaccine administration forces the body to react independently to antigenic stimulation and produce its own defense mechanisms, as regulated by the National Immunization Schedule of the Russian Federation. Passive immunization utilizes preformed biologically active components, creating temporary protection.
Passive means 'on foot': antibodies arrive preformed, they do not storm the body themselves or synthesize anything.
Class and exam questions
How does passive immunity differ from active immunity?
Active immunity is formed independently by the body in response to antigens (after illness or vaccination). Passive immunity arises through the introduction of preformed antibodies from the outside.
How is natural passive immunity transmitted?
It is transmitted via the natural transplacental route—maternal IgG class antibodies pass to the fetus through the placenta, providing protection to newborns.
In which cases is artificial passive immunity used?
It is used for emergency prophylaxis and treatment through the administration of immune sera, immunoglobulin preparations (e.g., rabies immunoglobulin for severe bites), or specific immunoglobulins based on epidemiological indications.
What else to study on this topic
- Classification of adaptive immunity forms and sterile immunity
- Post-exposure rabies prophylaxis and the KOVAV administration schedule
- Age-related features and post-infection immunity in intestinal infections
- Diagnostic markers of infections (IgM and IgG)
- National Immunization Schedule of the Russian Federation and the role of primary vaccination
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