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Allergic Reactions

Allergic Reactions

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...

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...

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),...

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...

Hypersensitivity Reactions: Immune-Complex Reactions

Hypersensitivity Reactions: Immune-Complex Reactions

Type III hypersensitivity reactions occur when antigen–antibody complexes form and activate the complement system. Normally, these complexes help the clearance of antigens by phagocytes and red blood cells. However, when large numbers of immune complexes are present, they can deposit in tissues—particularly in the walls of blood vessels—leading to inflammation and tissue injury. These deposits trigger complement activation and neutrophil recruitment, resulting in serum sickness, a systemic...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 13, 2026

An In Vitro Hemodynamic Loop Model to Investigate the Hemocytocompatibility and Host Cell Activation of Vascular Medical Devices

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Published on: August 21, 2020

Hypersensitivity to natural latex.

D Spaner¹, J Dolovich, S Tarlo

¹Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

|June 1, 1989

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Immediate hypersensitivity to natural latex can cause severe allergic reactions, including urticaria and angioedema. This IgE-mediated response highlights the risk of latex allergens through skin exposure.

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Contact Hypersensitivity as a Murine Model of Allergic Contact Dermatitis

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Published on: September 26, 2022

Area of Science:

Immunology
Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Dermatology

Background:

Rubber hypersensitivity is typically contact dermatitis from rubber additives.
IgE-mediated reactions to latex, such as contact urticaria, are rarely reported in Europe.

Observation:

A 34-year-old operating room nurse developed hand eczema and experienced systemic reactions (flushing, tachycardia, urticaria, angioedema, wheezing, light-headedness) during glove use.
Standard allergy testing for common rubber additives was negative.
Prick testing to natural latex triggered a significant allergic reaction in the patient, but not in controls.

Findings:

The patient demonstrated a positive IgE-mediated reaction to natural latex, confirmed by specific IgE antibodies (RAST).
Cutaneous absorption of latex allergens was identified as the route of exposure.
This case confirms natural latex as a cause of immediate IgE-mediated hypersensitivity.

Implications:

Increased use of latex products may lead to more cases of IgE-mediated latex hypersensitivity.
Healthcare professionals are at risk due to frequent latex glove use.
Awareness and diagnostic strategies for immediate latex allergy are crucial.