Types of sensitivity
Pohle, H.D.
Münchener Medizinische Wochenschrift 119(10): 329-332
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0341-3098 PMID: 403410 Document Number: 111396
Pathogen-host relationships are interactions which, on the part of the host, in contrast to in vitro infections not only depend on the available substrate but require a specific sensitivity to the individual pathogen. According to the species of the pathogen, the host responds with either a local or generalized sensitivity. Whereas local sensitivity persists throughout life, a generalized sensitivity is changed to a local sensitivity after the initial manifestation, by the development of a general immunity. Phylogenetic arguments support the assumption that sensitivity and its differences are genetically determined.