Immunology 8 - Case studies in immunology

Question 1

What are the clinical features of anaphylaxis?

Answer 1

IS AWFUL HARD:

Itch (palms, soles, genitalia)
Stridor (due to laryngeal obstruction)

Angiodema (of lips and mucous membranes)
Wheeze (due to bronchoconstriction)
Flushing
Urticaria
Loss of Consciousness

Hypotension
Arrhythmias
Rhinorrhoea
D&V

Question 2

Once someone has had an anaphylactic reaction, how should the cause be identified?

Answer 2

IgE blood test (skin prick should not be used)

Question 3

What is “serum sickness”?

Answer 3

Type III hypersensitivity reaction - similar to allergy, eg to penicillin

Question 4

Around how long after exposure does serum sickness develop?

Answer 4

3 days

Question 5

Recall some symptoms of serum sickness

Answer 5

IgG deposits in:

• Joints (causing arthralgia)
• Kidney (causing AKI)
• Skin (causing a vasculitic rash)

Question 6

How should serum sickness be managed?

Answer 6

Remove allergen
Corticosteroids
Manage fluids