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Allergic Reactions

Allergic Reactions

Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis

Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction mediated by Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. When IgE binds to allergens, it triggers the release of mediators– histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins from mast cells and basophils. These mediators cause vasodilation, edema, and inflammation, leading to various symptoms.The primary allergens causing anaphylaxis include food items (e.g., peanuts, shellfish), drugs (e.g., penicillin, asparaginase, corticotropin, heparin),...

Hypersensitivities

Hypersensitivities

Hypersensitivity, also known as a hypersensitivity reaction or allergic reaction, is a condition where the body's immune system reacts abnormally to a foreign substance. Such substances, that cause hypersensitivity are referred to as an allergen, could be something typically harmless to most people, like pollen or certain foods.
Types of Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity reactions are categorized into four types: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4. Each type has a distinct mechanism...

Antibody Structure

Antibody Structure

Overview
Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins (Ig), are essential players of the adaptive immune system. These antigen-binding proteins are produced by B cells and make up 20 percent of the total blood plasma by weight. In mammals, antibodies fall into five different classes, which each elicits a different biological response upon antigen binding.
The Y-Shaped Structure of Antibodies Consists of Four Polypeptide Chains
Antibodies consist of four polypeptide chains: two identical heavy...

Hypersensitivity Reactions: Delayed Hypersensitivity Reactions

Hypersensitivity Reactions: Delayed Hypersensitivity Reactions

Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity (DTH), or Type IV hypersensitivity, is a cell-mediated immune response. It occurs when T cells, rather than antibodies, mediate a reaction to specific antigens. It is characterized by a delayed onset (1-2 days) and involves the recruitment of macrophages to the inflammation site.The initiation of a DTH response begins with the sensitization of T cells. During this phase, which lasts at least 1-2 weeks, antigen-specific T cells are activated, clonally expanded, and...

Drug Toxicity: Allergic Reactions

Drug Toxicity: Allergic Reactions

Drug-related allergies are immune-mediated responses triggered by the administration of pharmacological agents. These hypersensitivity reactions are classified based on the immune mechanisms involved. The four primary types—Type I, II, III, and IV—are mediated by different immunological pathways and exhibit distinct clinical manifestations.Type I Hypersensitivity/ IgE-Mediated Reactions: Immunoglobulin E (IgE) immediately mediates Type I hypersensitivity reactions. Upon initial exposure to a...

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Basophil Activation Test for Allergy Diagnosis

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Chapter 4: Stinging insect allergy and venom immunotherapy.

Alan P Koterba, Paul A Greenberger

Allergy and Asthma Proceedings

|July 17, 2012

Summary

Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy effectively prevents future anaphylaxis in patients with a history of severe reactions. This treatment is recommended for those with prior anaphylaxis, not just large local reactions, offering significant protection.

Area of Science:

Allergy and Immunology
Toxicology
Entomology

Background:

The Hymenoptera order encompasses bees, wasps, and ants, with specific species like Africanized bees and fire ants posing significant sting risks.
Stings can cause local reactions or severe anaphylaxis, with risk factors including prior anaphylaxis and positive venom skin tests.

Purpose of the Study:

To differentiate treatment indications for Hymenoptera sting reactions, specifically large local reactions versus anaphylaxis.
To evaluate the efficacy of venom immunotherapy (IT) in preventing recurrent anaphylaxis.

Main Methods:

Review of clinical outcomes for patients experiencing large local reactions versus anaphylaxis after Hymenoptera stings.
Analysis of anaphylaxis recurrence rates in patients undergoing Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy (IT).

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Main Results:

Patients with a history of anaphylaxis and positive skin tests have a high risk (60% adults, 20-32% children) of future reactions.
Venom immunotherapy (IT) significantly reduces anaphylaxis incidence to 3% after 4 years, with long-term protection.

Conclusions:

Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy is indicated for patients with a history of anaphylaxis, not large local reactions.
IT is highly effective in preventing subsequent sting-induced anaphylaxis, with sustained benefits.