Immune system: Th1 versus Th2 – which one is it?

The immune system is complex and highly developed, yet its mission is simple: to seek out and destroy potential invaders.

Whilst immunity has the amazing ability to recognise and protect “self” tissue from pathogens, sometimes these recognition systems fail. Failure of our self-recognition can lead to over-reactive immune responses and inflammatory, autoimmune conditions.

Immune balance is well conceptualised by the model of T-helper 1 (Th1) and T-helper 2 (Th2) balance. Th1 cells direct our immune cells to protect us from bacterial, viral and fungal infections, as well as cancer cells. Th2 cells direct our immune system to fight off larger multicellular organisms, such as helminths (worms), and allergens. These two arms of immunity are highly effective when they act together in harmony. Whilst healthy immunity has the ability to recognise and attack infected or diseased “self” cells, healthy cells may be caught in the cross-fire and attacked due to “mistaken identity” such as in the case of Psoriasis.

Knowing if a condition is Th1 or Th2 mediated gives us clues as to how to effectively treat and manage these complex conditions.

If you have a question, query or concern over any of the above clinical presentations contact us for a quick chat. Many of these conditions can be managed naturally so that, over time, the incidence of exacerbations of flare ups reduce and become less severe…..Yay!