The body of human possess a variety of defensive mechanisms that prevent the invasion of tissues by disease causing organisms. These are classified as primary or secondary mechanisms. Primary mechanisms prevent entry of pathogenic organisms into the internal tissues. Secondary mechanisms destroy organisms that manage to enter into the tissues.
Skin is a major part of primary mechanisms. The skin acts as an effective mechanical barrier preventing entry of disease causing organisms. In addition, the secretions of sebaceous and sweat glands have some anti-microbial effects. Open wounds on the skin like the ones caused by Mpox in form of rushes which turn to blisters are a very important route for infection.
Swollen lymph nodes is another prominent Mpox symptom. Along the lymph vessels are series of lymph nodes. These contain a population of phagocytic cells mainly lymphocytes which play part in secondary defense mechanisms. B-lymphocytes make antibodies. T-lymphocytes are responsible for attacking viruses, fungi and some bacteria. Lymph nodes are the major sites of lymphocyte production. To this end, swollen lymph nodes is a danger sign of body’s immunity compromise.