A patient comes into the emergency department with itching, swelling, and slight shortness of breath after being stung by a bee. The nurse realizes this patient is experiencing which type of hypersensitivity reaction?

1. type I IgE-mediated hypersensitivity
2. type II cytotoxic hypersensitivity
3. type III immune complex-mediated hypersensitivity
4. type IV delayed hypersensitivity


Correct Answer: 1

Common hypersensitivity reactions, such as allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, hives, and anaphylactic shock, are typical of type I or IgE-mediated hypersensitivity. This type of hypersensitivity response is triggered when an allergen interacts with IgE bound to mast cells and basophils. The antigen–antibody complex prompts the release of histamine and other chemical mediators, complement, acetylcholine, kinins, and chemotactic factors. When a potent allergen such as bee or wasp venom or a drug is injected that results in widespread antibody–antigen reaction and response to these chemical mediators, a systemic response such as anaphylaxis, urticaria, or angioedema occurs. A hemolytic transfusion reaction to blood of an incompatible type is characteristic of a type II or cytotoxic hypersensitivity reaction. Type III hypersensitivity reactions result from the formation of IgG or IgM antibody–antigen immune complexes in the circulation, leading to tissue damage. Type IV delayed hypersensitivity reactions result from an exaggerated interaction between an antigen and normal cell-mediated mechanisms.

Nursing

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