Allergy and Hypersensitivities

Flashcards covering vocabulary related to allergy and hypersensitivities from Kuby Immunology.

Hypersensitivity

An exaggerated immune response that often leads to inflammation and tissue injury.

Humoral Immune Response

An immune response initiated by antibodies or antibody complexes.

Immediate Hypersensitivity

A type of hypersensitivity reaction that occurs quickly, usually involving IgE antibodies.

Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity (DTH)

A cell-mediated immune response initiated by T cells, characterized by a delayed reaction.

Gell and Coombs Classification

A classification system for hypersensitivity reactions that includes four types: Type I (IgE-mediated), Type II (antibody-mediated), Type III (immune complex-mediated), and Type IV (T-cell mediated).

Type I Hypersensitivity

IgE-mediated hypersensitivity, involving allergens that can induce symptoms such as anaphylaxis.

Type II Hypersensitivity

Antibody-mediated hypersensitivity where antibodies target cell surface antigens, leading to cell destruction.

Type III Hypersensitivity

Immune complex-mediated hypersensitivity characterized by the deposition of antibody-antigen complexes in tissues.

Type IV Hypersensitivity

T-cell mediated hypersensitivity involving sensitized T cells that release cytokines to activate macrophages.

Allergenicity

The capacity of a nonparasitic antigen to induce allergen-specific IgE antibodies in susceptible individuals.

Histamine

A major component of mast-cell granules that mediates inflammatory responses during allergic reactions.

Eosinophil Chemotactic Factor

A mediator that attracts eosinophils to sites of allergic inflammation.

Systemic Anaphylaxis

A severe, systemic allergic reaction that can lead to shock and respiratory distress.

Allergic Rhinitis

Also known as hay fever; an allergic reaction characterized by sneezing, nasal congestion, and exudation.

Asthma

A chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that can be triggered by allergens, characterized by bronchoconstriction.

Atopic Dermatitis

An inflammatory skin condition, also known as eczema, commonly associated with a family history of atopy.

Food Allergies

Allergic reactions to food substances that can lead to gastrointestinal and systemic responses.

Rhogam

An anti-Rh antibody used to prevent hemolytic disease of the newborn by blocking maternal IgG.

Mast Cell Degranulation

The release of mediators from mast cells following the cross-linking of IgE by an allergen.

Cytokines

Signaling proteins released by immune cells that mediate inflammation and cell communication.