Type I Hypersensitivity(Immediate Hypersensitivity or IgE Mediated Hypersensitivity)

TYPE I HYPERSENSITIVITY (IMMEDIATE HYPERSENSITIVITY OR IgE MEDIATED HYPERSENSITIVITY

  • It is an immediate type of hypersensitivity.
  • Type I hypersensitivity are acute inflammatory reactions mediated by IgE bound to mast cells and basophils.
  • It is induced by certain types of antigens referred to as allergens and is similar to a normal humoral response (The term allergen refers to non parasitic antigens capable of stimulating Type I hypersensitivity responses in allergic individuals).
  • What distinguishes a Type I hypersensitivity response from a normal humoral response is that the plasma cells secretes IgE.
  • Though these reactions causes discomfort to the individual, it performs at least two beneficial effects:
  • It helps antigen elimination
  • Plays an important role in resistance to parasitic worms.
Last modified: Thursday, 26 August 2010, 8:49 AM