In: Anatomy and Physiology
Define the term allergen. How do allergens differ from the antigens that cause Type II, III, and IV hypersensitivity reactions?
An allergen is any substance (antigen), most often eaten or inhaled, that is recognized by the immune system and causes an allergic reaction. Dust, pollen and pet dander are all common allergens, but it is possible to be allergic to anything.
Allergens are different from antigen:
An antigen is a substance that can trigger an immune response, resulting in production of an antibody as part of the body's defense against infection and disease. Many antigens are foreign proteins (those not found naturally in the body). An allergen is a special type of antigen which causes an IgE antibody response.
Allergens causes :
Type II hypersensitivity is said to occur when damage to the host tissues is caused by cellular lysis induced by the direct binding of antibody to cell surface antigens. While the antibodies involved in type I HS are of the IgE isotype, those involved in type II HS reactions are mainly of the IgM or IgG isotype.
Type III hypersensitivity-Type III hypersensitivity. Immune complex. Specialty. Immunology. Type III hypersensitivity occurs when there is accumulation of immune complexes (antigen-antibody complexes) that have not been adequately cleared by innate immune cells, giving rise to an inflammatory response and attraction of leukocytes.
Type IV hypersensitivity is a cell-mediated immune reaction. In other words, it does not involve the participation of antibodies but is due primarily to the interaction of T cells with antigens. ... These cells persist for many months or years, so that persons who have become hypersensitive to an antigen tend to remain so.