Final answer:
Penicillin can cause Type I hypersensitivity reactions, including localized symptoms like hives or systemic anaphylaxis, and Type IV hypersensitivity as delayed-type reactions like contact dermatitis. Additionally, Type II cytotoxic hypersensitivity can occur, and late-phase reactions from Type I may manifest hours after initial exposure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of Hypersensitivity Reactions to Penicillin (PCN)
Penicillin (PCN) can cause several types of hypersensitivity reactions. The most common and immediately dangerous is the Type I hypersensitivity, which is an IgE-mediated allergic reaction. Such reactions can range from localized symptoms like hives and asthma to systemic reactions like anaphylaxis, a severe, life-threatening response that requires immediate medical attention. Another type of reaction is Type IV hypersensitivity, also known as delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH), which can manifest as contact dermatitis when the skin comes into contact with allergens like latex, represented by red and swollen skin, or in response to the tuberculin skin test.
Type II hypersensitivity, also referred to as cytotoxic hypersensitivity, involves IgG and IgM antibodies that react to cell-surface antigens, potentially leading to cell lysis through complement activation or antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC).
Late-phase reactions in type I hypersensitivities are characterized by recruited eosinophils, neutrophils, and lymphocytes causing late-phase symptoms several hours after the initial exposure. These reactions are less immediate but can still cause considerable discomfort and complications.