Final answer:
The life-threatening allergic reaction to a bee sting is caused by IgE antibodies produced by the adaptive immune system, leading to an immediate hypersensitivity reaction known as anaphylaxis. This reaction can cause severe respiratory distress and requires immediate treatment with epinephrine to prevent it from becoming fatal.
Step-by-step explanation:
A person's life-threatening allergic reaction to a bee sting that affects the respiratory system is due to an allergic reaction. The component of the immune system responsible for this type of reaction is the production of antibodies, specifically IgE antibodies. These antibodies are part of the adaptive immune system, which learns to recognize specific antigens and can cause immediate hypersensitivity reactions upon subsequent exposures.
When sensitized individuals come into contact with the allergen (bee venom in this case), the IgE antibodies bound to mast cells recognize it. This causes the mast cells to release histamine and other inflammatory mediators, leading to symptoms such as swelling, redness, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis, which may manifest as respiratory distress and a severe drop in blood pressure.
Anaphylactic shock is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. People who are highly allergic to bee stings often must carry an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen) to counteract the effects of the reaction. This is due to the fact that upon exposure to the allergen, the sensitized immune system overreacts, causing the extreme response.