COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 558
[47] Tomer Y, et al. Infection, thyroid disease, and autoimmunity.
Endocr Rev. 1993;14(1):107-120.
[48] Stricker RB, et al. Benefit of intravenous antibiotic therapy in
patients referred for treatment of neurologic Lyme disease. Int J
Gen Med. 2011;4:639-646.
[49] Embracing Nutrition. Pathogen Reactivity Screen - Cyrex 12.
https://embracingnutrition.co.uk/shop/tests/pathogen-associated
-immune-reactivity-screen.
Comprehensive Guide to Cyrex Array 14: Mucosal
Immune Reactivity Screen
Introduction: The Critical Role of Mucosal Immunity
The human body's first line of defense against environmental
threats is the mucosal immune system4a vast network of immune
cells and molecules that line the surfaces exposed to the external
environment, including the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory
system, and oral cavity [1]. This extensive immune barrier covers
approximately 400 square meters and contains over 80% of the
body's immune cells [2]. Unlike the systemic immune system that
circulates throughout the body, the mucosal immune system
operates at the crucial interface between the body and the
external environment.
The primary protective molecule of the mucosal immune system is
secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), which plays a dual role:
defending against pathogens while maintaining tolerance to
beneficial microbes and food proteins [3]. This delicate balance is
essential for overall health, as disruptions in mucosal immunity can
lead to a cascade of inflammatory and autoimmune processes
[4].
Despite its foundational importance, the mucosal immune system
has traditionally been underexamined in clinical practice.
Conventional testing typically focuses on systemic immune
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