What is the body's last ditch effort in fighting pathogens?

The body's last line of defense against pathogens is the adaptive immune response, specifically the activation of T cells and B cells, which are part of the adaptive immune system. If a pathogen overcomes the body's primary defenses (such as the skin and mucous membranes) and the secondary defenses (such as the inflammatory response and phagocytes), the adaptive immune system takes over.

T cells can directly kill infected cells or help coordinate the immune response, while B cells produce antibodies that target specific pathogens for destruction. This specific immune response also develops immunological memory, which allows for a quicker and stronger response if the body encounters the same pathogen again in the future.

In severe cases, the body may also initiate a systemic reaction called sepsis, which is a widespread and potent inflammatory response to widespread infection. Sepsis can lead to septic shock, which is a critical condition that may lead to organ failure and death. Sepsis is an extreme and desperate attempt to fight severe infection, but it can be detrimental to the host if not controlled properly.