Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

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Study for the EMT Intermediate Exam. Access detailed flashcards and multiple-choice questions that come with hints and explanations. Prepare comprehensively for your EMT certification!

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What is a foreign substance that stimulates the body’s immune response called?

Antigen
Allergen
Pathogen
Antibody

The correct answer is: Antigen

A foreign substance that stimulates the body’s immune response is referred to as an antigen. Antigens can be proteins, polysaccharides, or other molecules that provoke an immune reaction, prompting the body to produce antibodies against them. This is a crucial part of the immune response, as it helps the body identify and fight off harmful substances, such as bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Allergens, while they are a type of antigen, specifically refer to substances that can cause an allergic reaction; they trigger an immune response in individuals who are sensitive to them. Pathogens are organisms, like viruses and bacteria, that can cause disease, but they are a broader category that includes antigens. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to antigens; they bind to antigens to help neutralize or eliminate them. Therefore, the term that accurately describes a foreign substance stimulating an immune response is antigen.