Hypersensitivity

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Hypersensitivity


Type I

  • Allergic reactions
  • Crosslinking of IgE leads to de-granulation of mast cells
  • fast reaction - within 15-20 mins

Type II

  • hypersensitivity triggered by binding of antigen to circulating blood cells
  • IgG binds antigen and leads to clearance of cell from blood stream - predominantly by spleen
  • leads to haemolytic anaemia or thrombocytopenia

Type III

  • soluble antigens
  • antigen:antibody immune complexes form
  • usually IgG
  • immune complexes deposit in blood vessel wall
  • bind Fc receptors of leucocytes & activate complement leading to immune activation and tissue destruction
  • Local reaction is known as "Arthus reaction"
  • immune complexes deposited in lung due to inhaled antigen - e.g. farmers lung

Type IV

  • delayed type hypersensitivity
  • mediated by specific T-cells
  • e.g. tuberculin test
  • contact hypersensitivity
  • can involve CD8 cells
 

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