[Pseudo-immunopathy]

Symptoms similar to phenomena in immunologic diseases but without specific reactions are classified as pseudo-immunologic. They are caused, especially when allergoid, by complement-activation via the alternate pathway or are due to a lack of inhibitors. Other symptoms are based upon receptor-substrate interactions or enzymatic deficiency. Diagnosis is confirmed by characterization of the pathogenic mechanisms and by missing immunological phenomena. In the majority of cases therapy is similar to measures in true immunologic diseases. Prophylaxis by substitution is only possible in a few situations.