Hypersensitivity - Allergy And Autoimmune Diseases

Question 1

What is an allergy? What does it involve?

Answer 1

An allergy is a response to a non-harmful substance = allergen (not pathogens) E.g. Peanuts, pollen and milk.
Involves the production of IgE antibodies with first exposure to pathogens. Only when exposed a second time, does and allergic reaction occur

Question 2

What are mast cells?

Answer 2

Mast cells mediate inflammatory responses such as hypersensitivity and allergic reactions. Upon stimulation by an allergen the mast cells release the contents of their granules, which is histamine and interleukins and this causes inflammation.

Question 3

What are some examples of auto-immune diseases?

Answer 3

Diabetes mellitus, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis