Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 22, 2025

Basophil Activation Test for Investigation of IgE-Mediated Mechanisms in Drug Hypersensitivity
Published on: September 16, 2011
Hypersensitivity Reactions: An Everyday Occurrence in Pediatric Allergy Clinics
1Division of Allergy, Pulmonology, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.
Abstract:
The explanation of hypersensitivity reactions has long relied on the classification of Gell and Coombs, originally proposed in the 1960s. However, their concepts were predated by other authors by at least 50 years. A 21st century pediatric allergy clinic provides multiple examples of these basic concepts on a daily basis. We review classic and less classic examples of the original criteria, highlight where current disease pathophysiology does not always fit the original model, and provide updated language for common and uncommon immunologically driven hypersensitivity diseases.
Related Concept Videos
Hypersensitivities
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...
Allergic Reactions
Allergic Drug Reactions
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Metabolism
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Overview and Drug Absorption

