Question

What are immune-mediated allergies?

A) Allergies caused by bacteria
B) Allergies triggered by the immune system
C) Allergies due to physical injury
D) Allergies caused by viruses

Answer 1

Allergies are conditions caused by hypersensitivity of the immune system to typically harmless substances. The immune system reacts to allergens, causing unpleasant symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

Allergies are several conditions caused by hypersensitivity of the immune system to typically harmless substances in the environment. These diseases include hay fever, food allergies, atopic dermatitis, allergic asthma, and anaphylaxis. Symptoms may include red eyes, an itchy rash, sneezing, a runny nose, shortness of breath, or swelling.

. These substances are called allergens, and they can trigger an immune response that leads to various symptoms. There are different types of immune-mediated allergies, classified into four main categories based on the immune mechanisms involved. These are referred to as Type I, Type II, Type III, and Type IV hypersensitivity reactions.

Type I Hypersensitivity (Immediate Hypersensitivity):

This is the most common type of allergy.

Involves the release of histamine and other chemicals immediately after exposure to an allergen.

Examples include allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma, and anaphylaxis.

Type II Hypersensitivity (Cytotoxic Hypersensitivity):

Antibodies target specific cells, leading to their destruction.

Examples include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and certain drug reactions.

Type III Hypersensitivity (Immune Complex-Mediated Hypersensitivity):

Immune complexes (antigen-antibody aggregates) deposit in tissues, causing inflammation.

Examples include systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and certain forms of vasculitis.

Type IV Hypersensitivity (Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity):

Involves a delayed response, typically 24 to 72 hours after exposure to the allergen.

Mediated by T cells and cytokines.

Examples include contact dermatitis (poison ivy rash) and some autoimmune reactions.

Common allergens that can trigger immune-mediated allergies include pollen, dust mites, animal dander, certain foods (e.g., nuts, shellfish), insect stings, medications, and latex.

Diagnosis and management of immune-mediated allergies often involve identifying the specific allergen through allergy testing and implementing strategies to avoid exposure. Treatment may also include medications such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, and in severe cases, epinephrine for anaphylaxis. Immunotherapy, which involves gradually exposing the individual to increasing amounts of the allergen, may be recommended for certain allergies.

Answer 2

Immune-mediated allergies are triggered by the immune system's overreaction to harmless environmental substances, known as allergens. The correct response is B) Allergies triggered by the immune system, and an allergy to pollen is an immediate hypersensitivity reaction.

Step-by-step explanation:

Immune-mediated allergies are conditions in which the immune system overreacts to a normally harmless substance known as an allergen, which is found in the environment. This overreaction results in various symptoms that can range from mild to severe. The correct answer to the question is B) Allergies triggered by the immune system. Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and specific foods can trigger immune responses. The allergy to pollen, for example, is classified as an immediate hypersensitivity reaction, which is a type of inflammatory response.