Hypersensitivity , definition classification . Type 1 ,2,3,4, pathogenesis cellular mediators , treatment , prophylaxis , examples . Make flowchart for pathogenesis

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hypersensitivity reaction types 1 2 3 4 pathogenesis diagram

Clinical photograph of a skin prick test (SPT) and intradermal (ID) test on a human forearm, illustrating type 1 hypersensitivity reactions. The composite image contains four panels (A-D). Panels A and B compare skin reactions at 15 and 30 minutes across six numbered sites. Sites 2 (histamine), 5 (0.9% aluminum sulfate mixed with histamine), and 6 (9.0% aluminum sulfate mixed with histamine) demonstrate classic wheal and flare reactions characterized by central raised edema and peripheral erythema. Sites 1 (saline) and 3-4 (aluminum sulfate alone) serve as controls or show minimal to no reaction. Panels C and D show site 7; C shows the reaction to 0.1 cc aluminum sulfate ID at 15 minutes with a minimal skin response, while D shows the same site 15 minutes after a histamine overlay, resulting in a large, pronounced wheal and flare. The image illustrates that while aluminum sulfate may inhibit specific allergen-induced reactions, it does not block the physiological response to histamine itself, confirming the mechanism of action is likely proximal to mast cell mediator release.

Clinical photograph of a skin prick test (SPT) and intradermal (ID) test on a human forearm, illustrating type 1 hypersensitivity reactions. The composite image contains four panels (A-D). Panels A and B compare skin reactions at 15 and 30 minutes across six numbered sites. Sites 2 (histamine), 5 (0.9% aluminum sulfate mixed with histamine), and 6 (9.0% aluminum sulfate mixed with histamine) demonstrate classic wheal and flare reactions characterized by central raised edema and peripheral erythema. Sites 1 (saline) and 3-4 (aluminum sulfate alone) serve as controls or show minimal to no reaction. Panels C and D show site 7; C shows the reaction to 0.1 cc aluminum sulfate ID at 15 minutes with a minimal skin response, while D shows the same site 15 minutes after a histamine overlay, resulting in a large, pronounced wheal and flare. The image illustrates that while aluminum sulfate may inhibit specific allergen-induced reactions, it does not block the physiological response to histamine itself, confirming the mechanism of action is likely proximal to mast cell mediator release.

This diagnostic and educational graphic illustrates the Roussouly classification of sagittal spinal alignment, categorized into four types (Type 1 to Type 4). Each type is presented using a lateral lumbar spine X-ray alongside a corresponding schematic anatomical diagram. The diagrams label key radiological parameters used for sagittal balance assessment, including the sacral slope, the apex of lumbar lordosis, the lordosis tilt angle, and the division into upper and lower arcs of lordosis. Type 1 is characterized by a low sacral slope and a short, distal lumbar lordosis. Type 2 features a flat lumbar curve with a low apex and low sacral slope. Type 3 represents a balanced profile with a moderate sacral slope and a more central apex, resulting in harmonic upper and lower arcs. Type 4 shows a high sacral slope and a long, pronounced lumbar lordosis with a more cranial apex. This visual aid is intended for orthopedic surgeons and radiologists to understand variations in spinopelvic morphology and their implications for spinal surgery and sagittal plane correction.

This diagnostic and educational graphic illustrates the Roussouly classification of sagittal spinal alignment, categorized into four types (Type 1 to Type 4). Each type is presented using a lateral lumbar spine X-ray alongside a corresponding schematic anatomical diagram. The diagrams label key radiological parameters used for sagittal balance assessment, including the sacral slope, the apex of lumbar lordosis, the lordosis tilt angle, and the division into upper and lower arcs of lordosis. Type 1 is characterized by a low sacral slope and a short, distal lumbar lordosis. Type 2 features a flat lumbar curve with a low apex and low sacral slope. Type 3 represents a balanced profile with a moderate sacral slope and a more central apex, resulting in harmonic upper and lower arcs. Type 4 shows a high sacral slope and a long, pronounced lumbar lordosis with a more cranial apex. This visual aid is intended for orthopedic surgeons and radiologists to understand variations in spinopelvic morphology and their implications for spinal surgery and sagittal plane correction.

A medical educational diagram summarizing primary brain tumor types involving SMARCA4 pathogenesis, categorized by histological origin and WHO classification. The central illustration is a sagittal cross-section of the human brain, highlighting the cerebrum (green), brainstem (light blue), and cerebellum (dark blue). 

Top labels categorize Gliomas into three subtypes: 
1. Astrocytoma (Grades 1-3, originating from astrocytes)
2. Glioblastoma (Grade 4 astrocytoma, most common adult brain tumor)
3. Oligodendroglioma (Grades 1-3, originating from oligodendrocytes).
Each is linked via pointers to the cerebral cortex. Inset illustrations show the star-shaped morphology of an astrocyte and the myelin-supporting structure of an oligodendrocyte.

Bottom labels describe embryonal Grade 4 tumors:
1. Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumor (ATRT), localized to the brainstem and cerebellum.
2. Medulloblastoma, localized to the cerebellum and noted as the most common malignant childhood brain tumor. 

The diagram utilizes a clean, anatomical layout designed for pathology and neuro-oncology education, emphasizing the relationship between cell origin, anatomical location, and clinical grading.

A medical educational diagram summarizing primary brain tumor types involving SMARCA4 pathogenesis, categorized by histological origin and WHO classification. The central illustration is a sagittal cross-section of the human brain, highlighting the cerebrum (green), brainstem (light blue), and cerebellum (dark blue). Top labels categorize Gliomas into three subtypes: 1. Astrocytoma (Grades 1-3, originating from astrocytes) 2. Glioblastoma (Grade 4 astrocytoma, most common adult brain tumor) 3. Oligodendroglioma (Grades 1-3, originating from oligodendrocytes). Each is linked via pointers to the cerebral cortex. Inset illustrations show the star-shaped morphology of an astrocyte and the myelin-supporting structure of an oligodendrocyte. Bottom labels describe embryonal Grade 4 tumors: 1. Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumor (ATRT), localized to the brainstem and cerebellum. 2. Medulloblastoma, localized to the cerebellum and noted as the most common malignant childhood brain tumor. The diagram utilizes a clean, anatomical layout designed for pathology and neuro-oncology education, emphasizing the relationship between cell origin, anatomical location, and clinical grading.

This clinical photograph and accompanying data table document skin prick test (SPT) results on a patient's forearm, illustrating immediate hypersensitivity reactions. The visual content shows eight numbered prick sites, evaluated for wheal and flare reactions. Site 1 (histamine positive control) and sites 7 and 8 (raw grated and raw Japanese radish, respectively) demonstrate significant positive reactions, characterized by raised, erythematous wheals measuring approximately 7 mm in diameter. In contrast, site 2 (normal saline negative control) and site 6 (boiled Japanese radish) show no reaction (0 mm), indicating the allergen is heat-labile. Sites 3, 4, and 5 test varying dilutions of Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC); site 5 (10x dilution) shows a negligible 1 mm wheal, while higher dilutions (100x and 1000x) are entirely negative. This visual comparison confirms an IgE-mediated allergy to raw Japanese radish components while ruling out AITC as the primary allergen. The material is suitable for dermatology and allergy/immunology education, focusing on diagnostic testing and food-induced contact urticaria.

This clinical photograph and accompanying data table document skin prick test (SPT) results on a patient's forearm, illustrating immediate hypersensitivity reactions. The visual content shows eight numbered prick sites, evaluated for wheal and flare reactions. Site 1 (histamine positive control) and sites 7 and 8 (raw grated and raw Japanese radish, respectively) demonstrate significant positive reactions, characterized by raised, erythematous wheals measuring approximately 7 mm in diameter. In contrast, site 2 (normal saline negative control) and site 6 (boiled Japanese radish) show no reaction (0 mm), indicating the allergen is heat-labile. Sites 3, 4, and 5 test varying dilutions of Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC); site 5 (10x dilution) shows a negligible 1 mm wheal, while higher dilutions (100x and 1000x) are entirely negative. This visual comparison confirms an IgE-mediated allergy to raw Japanese radish components while ruling out AITC as the primary allergen. The material is suitable for dermatology and allergy/immunology education, focusing on diagnostic testing and food-induced contact urticaria.

A comprehensive medical working model diagram illustrating the multi-level regulation of m6A RNA methylation across four sections. Section 1 links pathological m6A RNA methylation regulator (RMR) expression to diseases including organ failures, viral infections, metabolic diseases, acute inflammations, cancers, and autoimmune conditions. Section 2 identifies key immune cell types involved, specifically macrophages, endothelial cells, and CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells. Section 3 details the metabolic pathways for methyl donor generation, featuring the Folate cycle, Methionine-Homocysteine Cycle (SAM/SAH), Transsulfuration pathway (Cysteine/Glutathione), and Polyamine metabolism. It illustrates the conversion of mRNA to m6A mRNA and categorizes 29 RMRs into Writers (10), Erasers (2), Readers (11), and RNA-binding proteins (6). Section 4 depicts the intracellular molecular mechanisms where external signals—via cytokine, viral, DAMP, PAMP, and immune checkpoint receptors—and internal nuclear transcription factors (NF-κB, JAK/STATs, TP53, PTEN, and APC) regulate RMR transcriptomic changes. This diagram serves as an educational resource for understanding the interplay between metabolic homeostasis, inflammatory signaling, and epigenetic RNA modifications in human disease pathogenesis.

A comprehensive medical working model diagram illustrating the multi-level regulation of m6A RNA methylation across four sections. Section 1 links pathological m6A RNA methylation regulator (RMR) expression to diseases including organ failures, viral infections, metabolic diseases, acute inflammations, cancers, and autoimmune conditions. Section 2 identifies key immune cell types involved, specifically macrophages, endothelial cells, and CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells. Section 3 details the metabolic pathways for methyl donor generation, featuring the Folate cycle, Methionine-Homocysteine Cycle (SAM/SAH), Transsulfuration pathway (Cysteine/Glutathione), and Polyamine metabolism. It illustrates the conversion of mRNA to m6A mRNA and categorizes 29 RMRs into Writers (10), Erasers (2), Readers (11), and RNA-binding proteins (6). Section 4 depicts the intracellular molecular mechanisms where external signals—via cytokine, viral, DAMP, PAMP, and immune checkpoint receptors—and internal nuclear transcription factors (NF-κB, JAK/STATs, TP53, PTEN, and APC) regulate RMR transcriptomic changes. This diagram serves as an educational resource for understanding the interplay between metabolic homeostasis, inflammatory signaling, and epigenetic RNA modifications in human disease pathogenesis.

This clinical photograph displays the results of intradermal allergy testing performed on the volar surfaces of both forearms of a patient. The image illustrates immediate hypersensitivity reactions 20 minutes post-injection of various insulin analogs. Visible across test sites 1, 2, 3, and 4 are erythematous wheals and flares of varying intensities, indicating positive allergic reactions to Levemir, Huminsulin basal, Humalog, and Lantus respectively. Control sites are clearly labeled: site 'H' (Histamine) shows a significant positive control reaction characterized by a large, bright red wheal and surrounding erythema, while site 'Ø' (aqua dest.) serves as a negative control, exhibiting no inflammatory response and appearing consistent with the surrounding normal skin. This image is a primary educational example of Type I hypersensitivity testing for insulin allergy, demonstrating how different insulin preparations can trigger localized cutaneous reactions. It is relevant for dermatology, immunology, and endocrinology specialties in the context of diagnosing iatrogenic drug allergies.

This clinical photograph displays the results of intradermal allergy testing performed on the volar surfaces of both forearms of a patient. The image illustrates immediate hypersensitivity reactions 20 minutes post-injection of various insulin analogs. Visible across test sites 1, 2, 3, and 4 are erythematous wheals and flares of varying intensities, indicating positive allergic reactions to Levemir, Huminsulin basal, Humalog, and Lantus respectively. Control sites are clearly labeled: site 'H' (Histamine) shows a significant positive control reaction characterized by a large, bright red wheal and surrounding erythema, while site 'Ø' (aqua dest.) serves as a negative control, exhibiting no inflammatory response and appearing consistent with the surrounding normal skin. This image is a primary educational example of Type I hypersensitivity testing for insulin allergy, demonstrating how different insulin preparations can trigger localized cutaneous reactions. It is relevant for dermatology, immunology, and endocrinology specialties in the context of diagnosing iatrogenic drug allergies.

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A detailed medical flowchart showing the pathogenesis of all 4 types of hypersensitivity reactions (Gell and Coombs classification). Type I (Immediate/IgE-mediated): Allergen → Sensitization (Th2 activation, IL-4/IL-13 → IgE production) → IgE binds mast cells → Re-exposure to allergen → Mast cell degranulation → Early phase (histamine, leukotrienes, prostaglandins) + Late phase (eosinophils, cytokines) → Anaphylaxis, asthma, urticaria. Type II (Antibody-mediated cytotoxic): Antigen on cell surface → IgG/IgM antibodies bind → Complement activation (CDC) + ADCC + Phagocytosis + NK cells → Cell lysis/destruction → Hemolytic anemia, Goodpasture syndrome, Myasthenia gravis. Type III (Immune complex-mediated): Antigen + IgG/IgM → Soluble immune complexes in circulation → Deposition in vessel walls/glomeruli → Complement activation + Neutrophil recruitment → Lysosomal enzymes + Free radicals → Vasculitis, glomerulonephritis, SLE, serum sickness. Type IV (Delayed-type, T cell-mediated): Antigen presented by APC → CD4+ T cell (Th1/Th17) sensitization → Re-exposure → Cytokine release (IFN-γ, TNF, IL-17) → Macrophage/neutrophil activation + CD8+ CTL cytotoxicity → Granuloma, contact dermatitis, Type 1 DM, MS. Use color coding: Type I = orange, Type II = blue, Type III = purple, Type IV = green. Clean professional medical education style with clear arrows and boxes.


Hypersensitivity Reactions - Complete Reference


Definition

Hypersensitivity refers to exaggerated or inappropriate immune responses to antigens (exogenous or self) that lead to tissue injury and disease. The term arose because an individual previously sensitized to an antigen exhibits a detectable reaction (sensitivity) on re-exposure - when this reaction is injurious and excessive, it is called hypersensitivity.
Normal immune responses eradicate pathogens without serious tissue injury, but hypersensitivity occurs when responses are:
  • Inadequately controlled
  • Inappropriately targeted against self-tissues (autoimmunity)
  • Triggered by harmless environmental antigens (allergy)
  • Caused by commensal organisms
Robbins & Kumar Pathologic Basis of Disease - Classification of Hypersensitivity Reactions

Classification - Gell and Coombs (1963)

TypeNameMediatorTiming
Type IImmediate / Anaphylactic / IgE-mediatedIgE + Mast cellsMinutes
Type IIAntibody-mediated cytotoxicIgG / IgM on cell surfaceHours
Type IIIImmune complex-mediatedSoluble IgG/IgM + ComplementHours - days
Type IVDelayed-type / Cell-mediatedT lymphocytes (CD4+/CD8+)24-72 hours
Robbins & Kumar Basic Pathology, Table 5.2

Pathogenesis Flowchart

Hypersensitivity Reactions Pathogenesis Flowchart - All 4 Types


TYPE I - Immediate (IgE-Mediated) Hypersensitivity

Definition

A tissue reaction occurring within minutes of antigen contact with IgE bound to mast cells. Also called allergy or atopy.

Pathogenesis

Phase 1 - Sensitization

FIRST EXPOSURE TO ALLERGEN
        ↓
Allergen processed by Dendritic Cells / APCs
        ↓
Th2 cell activation
        ↓
Cytokine release: IL-4, IL-5, IL-13
        ↓
IL-4 + IL-13 → B cell class switching → IgE production
IL-5 → Eosinophil activation and recruitment
        ↓
IgE binds to FcεRI receptors on MAST CELLS and BASOPHILS
        ↓
Sensitized mast cells distributed in tissues
(Individual now "sensitized")

Phase 2 - Activation (Re-exposure)

SECOND EXPOSURE TO SAME ALLERGEN
        ↓
Allergen cross-links 2 IgE molecules on mast cell surface
        ↓
FcεRI receptor clustering → intracellular signaling
        ↓
MAST CELL DEGRANULATION

Cellular Mediators

Primary (Preformed, released in seconds-minutes):
MediatorEffect
HistamineVasodilation, ↑ vascular permeability, smooth muscle contraction, mucus secretion
HeparinAnticoagulant in granules
Neutral proteases (tryptase, chymase)Tissue damage, kinin activation
Chemotactic factors (ECF, NCF)Recruit eosinophils and neutrophils
Secondary (Newly synthesized - Lipid mediators, hours):
MediatorEffect
Leukotrienes C4, D4, E4Prolonged bronchospasm, ↑ mucus, ↑ vascular permeability (1000x more potent than histamine)
Prostaglandin D2Bronchospasm, vasodilation
PAF (Platelet Activating Factor)Platelet aggregation, bronchoconstriction
Thromboxane A2Vasoconstriction, bronchoconstriction
Cytokines (Late phase, hours):
CytokineEffect
IL-4, IL-13Sustain Th2 responses, IgE production
IL-5Eosinophil survival and activation
TNF, IL-1Inflammation
IL-8 (CXCL8)Neutrophil recruitment

Biphasic Response

  • Early phase (0-30 min): Histamine-driven - vasodilation, edema, bronchospasm
  • Late phase (2-24 hrs): Eosinophils, neutrophils, basophils - tissue damage, sustained inflammation

Clinical Examples

  • Anaphylaxis (systemic - bee sting, penicillin, peanuts)
  • Bronchial asthma (atopic)
  • Allergic rhinitis / hay fever
  • Urticaria (hives)
  • Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
  • Food allergies

Treatment & Prophylaxis

CategoryAgentsMechanism
EmergencyEpinephrine (adrenaline)α1: vasoconstriction; β2: bronchodilation; reverses anaphylaxis
AntihistaminesCetirizine, fexofenadine, diphenhydramineH1 receptor blockade
BronchodilatorsSalbutamol, terbutalineβ2 agonist
CorticosteroidsPrednisolone, hydrocortisoneAnti-inflammatory, suppress late phase
Mast cell stabilizersCromoglycate, nedocromilPrevent degranulation (prophylaxis)
Anti-IgEOmalizumabBinds free IgE, blocks FcεRI binding
Anti-IL-5MepolizumabBlocks eosinophil activation
Anti-IL-4RDupilumabBlocks IL-4/IL-13 signaling
Leukotriene antagonistsMontelukast, zafirlukastBlock LTC4/LTD4/LTE4 receptors
Immunotherapy (desensitization)Allergen-specific SITShift Th2 → Th1, induce regulatory T cells, IgG4 blocking antibodies
Prophylaxis:
  • Avoidance of known allergens
  • Pre-treatment with antihistamines and corticosteroids for known triggers
  • Epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) for at-risk individuals
  • Allergen immunotherapy (desensitization)


TYPE II - Antibody-Mediated Cytotoxic Hypersensitivity

Definition

Injury caused by IgG or IgM antibodies directed against antigens present on cell surfaces or in the extracellular matrix.

Pathogenesis

ANTIGEN ON CELL SURFACE / ECM
        ↓
IgG or IgM antibodies produced (B cell activation)
        ↓
Antibodies bind to cell-surface antigen
        ↓
        ├──→ COMPLEMENT ACTIVATION (Classical pathway)
        │           ↓
        │    C3b opsonization → Phagocytosis (macrophages)
        │    C5b-9 (MAC) → Direct cell lysis (CDC)
        │    C3a, C5a → Inflammation, mast cell activation
        │
        ├──→ ADCC (Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity)
        │           ↓
        │    NK cells + macrophages bind Fc region of IgG
        │    → Release perforin, granzymes → Cell death
        │
        ├──→ PHAGOCYTOSIS
        │           ↓
        │    Fc receptors on macrophages bind opsonized cells
        │    → Engulfment and destruction
        │
        └──→ ANTIBODY-MEDIATED DYSFUNCTION (no lysis)
                    ↓
             Antibody blocks receptor function
             OR mimics ligand (stimulatory)

Cellular Mediators

  • Complement proteins: C1q, C3b (opsonin), C3a/C5a (anaphylatoxins), C5b-9 (MAC)
  • Macrophages: FcγR-mediated phagocytosis
  • NK cells: ADCC via FcγRIII (CD16)
  • Neutrophils: Recruited by C5a; tissue damage via enzymes
  • Autoantibodies (functional): Anti-AChR (MG), anti-TSH-R (Graves'), anti-GBM (Goodpasture)

Clinical Examples

DiseaseAntigenMechanism
Autoimmune hemolytic anemiaRBC surface proteinsComplement + phagocytosis → RBC destruction
Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP)Platelet glycoproteinsPlatelet phagocytosis
Goodpasture syndromeType IV collagen (GBM)Complement-mediated glomerulonephritis + pulmonary hemorrhage
Myasthenia GravisAcetylcholine receptorAntibody blocks AChR → muscle weakness (no lysis)
Graves' diseaseTSH receptorAntibody stimulates TSH-R → hyperthyroidism
Transfusion reactionsBlood group antigensComplement-mediated RBC lysis
Pemphigus vulgarisDesmoglein (desmosome)Disruption of skin adhesion → blisters
Rhesus incompatibilityRh antigen on fetal RBCsHemolytic disease of the newborn

Treatment & Prophylaxis

ApproachExamples
CorticosteroidsReduce antibody production, suppress inflammation
IV Immunoglobulin (IVIG)Fc receptor blockade, immune modulation
Rituximab (anti-CD20)Depletes B cells → reduces antibody production
Plasma exchangeRemoves circulating antibodies
SplenectomyRemoves site of phagocytosis and antibody production (ITP)
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitorsPyridostigmine - symptomatic (MG)
Anti-Rh immunoglobulinRh prophylaxis to prevent sensitization in Rh-negative mothers


TYPE III - Immune Complex-Mediated Hypersensitivity

Definition

Injury caused by deposition of soluble antigen-antibody complexes (IgG/IgM) in vascular walls and tissues, with subsequent complement activation and inflammation.

Pathogenesis

PERSISTENT / EXCESS ANTIGEN
        ↓
IgG / IgM antibodies formed
        ↓
Soluble antigen-antibody complexes formed in circulation
        ↓
NORMALLY: cleared by phagocytes (large complexes)
DISEASE: small/intermediate complexes escape clearance
        ↓
Complexes deposit in:
- Vessel walls (vasculitis)
- Glomerular basement membrane (nephritis)
- Synovial membranes (arthritis)
        ↓
COMPLEMENT ACTIVATION (Classical pathway)
        ↓
C3a + C5a (anaphylatoxins) →
  - Mast cell degranulation → histamine → ↑ vascular permeability
  - MORE complex deposition
C5a →
  - Chemotaxis → Neutrophil and monocyte recruitment
        ↓
NEUTROPHIL ACTIVATION
        ↓
Release of:
- Lysosomal enzymes (proteases, collagenase)
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS)
- Inflammatory cytokines
        ↓
TISSUE INJURY: Vasculitis, fibrinoid necrosis, glomerulonephritis

Cellular Mediators

  • Complement fragments: C3a, C5a (anaphylatoxins + chemotaxins), C5b-9
  • Neutrophils: Primary effectors - release enzymes and ROS
  • Macrophages/Monocytes: Recruited via Fc receptors and C5a
  • Mast cells: Activated by C3a/C5a - amplify vascular permeability
  • Platelets: Aggregation within vessels - microthrombi

Factors Determining Severity

  • Size: Small complexes are most pathogenic (not cleared by phagocytes)
  • Charge: Cationic antigens bind basement membranes more avidly
  • Amount: Excess antigen over antibody favors small complex formation
  • Site: Kidneys and joints are especially vulnerable

Classical Model - Serum Sickness

  • Day 0: Foreign protein (horse serum) injected
  • Day 6-8: Antibodies produced; complexes form in antigen excess
  • Day 10-12: Complexes deposit → fever, rash, arthritis, glomerulonephritis
  • Resolution as antigen cleared
Arthus Reaction (local): Subcutaneous antigen in pre-immunized → local immune complex deposition → local vasculitis, necrosis within 4-8 hours.

Clinical Examples

DiseaseAntigenFeatures
SLEDNA, nucleoproteinsNephritis, vasculitis, arthritis
Post-streptococcal GNStreptococcal cell wall antigensNephritis (2-3 weeks after throat infection)
Serum sicknessForeign proteins (horse serum, drugs)Fever, rash, arthralgias, nephritis
Polyarteritis nodosaHBsAg (in some cases)Systemic vasculitis
Hypersensitivity pneumonitisInhaled organic antigens (farmer's lung)Pulmonary inflammation
CryoglobulinemiaHCV-associated immune complexesVasculitis, nephritis
Arthus reactionLocal antigen-antibodyLocalized necrosis at injection site

Treatment & Prophylaxis

ApproachExamples
Remove antigen sourceTreat underlying infection (strep, HCV)
CorticosteroidsSuppress complement activation and inflammation
NSAIDsSymptomatic relief of arthritis/fever
AntimalarialsHydroxychloroquine - SLE
ImmunosuppressantsCyclophosphamide, azathioprine, MMF (SLE nephritis)
BiologicsBelimumab (anti-BLyS) - SLE
Plasma exchangeRemove circulating complexes


TYPE IV - Delayed-Type (Cell-Mediated) Hypersensitivity

Definition

Tissue injury mediated by T lymphocytes (CD4+ Th1/Th17 and CD8+ CTLs), NOT antibody. Reaction occurs 24-72 hours after antigen challenge (hence "delayed").

Pathogenesis

Phase 1 - Sensitization

FIRST ANTIGEN EXPOSURE
        ↓
Antigen processed and presented by APCs (dendritic cells)
with MHC Class II (for CD4+) or MHC Class I (for CD8+)
        ↓
Naïve T cells activated in secondary lymphoid organs
        ↓
Differentiation:
CD4+ → Th1 (IFN-γ) / Th17 (IL-17)
CD8+ → Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes (CTLs)
        ↓
Memory T cells formed and circulate

Phase 2 - Effector Response (Re-exposure)

SECOND ANTIGEN EXPOSURE (24-72 hrs)
        ↓
Memory T cells recognize antigen
        ↓
        ├──→ CD4+ Th1 cells activated
        │        ↓
        │   IFN-γ → Macrophage activation
        │   TNF → Inflammation, vascular changes
        │   IL-2 → T cell proliferation
        │   Activated macrophages:
        │     - Kill intracellular pathogens
        │     - Release more cytokines, ROS, proteases
        │     - Form GRANULOMA (with Th1 cytokines)
        │
        ├──→ CD4+ Th17 cells activated
        │        ↓
        │   IL-17, IL-22 → Neutrophil recruitment
        │   IL-17 → Epithelial inflammation
        │
        └──→ CD8+ CTL cytotoxicity
                  ↓
             Direct killing via:
             - Perforin/Granzyme B → Apoptosis
             - Fas-FasL interaction → Apoptosis
             → Tissue destruction (viral infections, transplant rejection)

Cellular Mediators

CellMediatorsEffect
CD4+ Th1IFN-γ, TNF, IL-2, lymphotoxinMacrophage activation, inflammation
CD4+ Th17IL-17, IL-21, IL-22Neutrophil recruitment, epithelial damage
CD8+ CTLsPerforin, Granzyme B, Fas-LDirect cell killing
Macrophages (activated)TNF, IL-1, IL-6, IL-12, ROS, proteasesTissue destruction, granuloma
NK cellsIFN-γ, perforinNon-MHC-restricted killing

Subtypes of Type IV

SubtypeCellsTimingExample
DTH (classic)CD4+ Th148-72 hrsTuberculin test (Mantoux)
Contact sensitivityCD4+ Th1/Th1748-72 hrsPoison ivy, nickel allergy
GranulomatousMacrophages + CD4+Days-weeksTB, sarcoidosis, leprosy
CTL-mediatedCD8+ CTLVariableViral hepatitis, graft rejection

Clinical Examples

DiseaseAntigen TargetMechanism
Contact dermatitisUrushiol (poison ivy), nickel, drugsTh1-mediated epidermal inflammation
TuberculosisMycobacterium TB antigensGranuloma formation
Type 1 DiabetesIslet β-cell antigens (insulin, GAD)CTL + Th1 → islet destruction
Multiple SclerosisMyelin basic proteinTh1 + Th17 → demyelination
Rheumatoid ArthritisCitrullinated proteins, collagen?Th17-mediated synovial inflammation
Inflammatory bowel diseaseEnteric bacteriaTh1 + Th17 cytokines
Transplant rejection (acute)Donor HLA antigensCTL + Th1
Hashimoto's thyroiditisThyroid peroxidase, thyroglobulinTh1 + CTL → thyroid destruction
PsoriasisUnknownTh17-dominated

Treatment & Prophylaxis

ApproachExamplesTarget
CorticosteroidsTopical (contact dermatitis), systemicSuppress T cell activation and cytokine production
Calcineurin inhibitorsTacrolimus, cyclosporineBlock IL-2 signaling → suppress T cells
Anti-TNFInfliximab, adalimumabNeutralize TNF (RA, IBD, psoriasis)
Anti-IL-17Secukinumab, ixekizumabBlock IL-17A (psoriasis, AS)
Anti-IL-12/23UstekinumabBlock Th1 and Th17 responses
Anti-IL-23Guselkumab, risankizumabSelective Th17 suppression
Anti-CD20RituximabB cell depletion (also helps in RA)
CTLA-4-IgAbataceptBlocks CD28-B7 costimulation → T cell anergy
Anti-CD25Basiliximab, daclizumabBlock IL-2R → prevent T cell proliferation
Methotrexate, azathioprineDMARDsAntiproliferative immunosuppression
AvoidanceRemove contact allergensProphylaxis for contact dermatitis

Quick Comparison Summary

FeatureType IType IIType IIIType IV
AntibodyIgEIgG / IgMIgG / IgMNone
ComplementNo (usually)YesYesNo
EffectorMast cells, eosinophilsAntibody + complement + phagocytesNeutrophilsT cells, macrophages
TimingMinutes (+ late 2-24h)HoursHours-days24-72 hours
TransferSerum (IgE)Serum (IgG)SerumLymphocytes
Key cytokinesIL-4, IL-5, IL-13--IFN-γ, IL-17, TNF
Prototypic diseaseAnaphylaxisGoodpastureSLE / serum sicknessContact dermatitis / TB
HistologyEdema, eosinophilsCell lysis, phagocytosisVasculitis, fibrinoid necrosisPerivascular infiltrate, granuloma

Sources: Robbins & Kumar Pathologic Basis of Disease, Robbins & Kumar Basic Pathology; Cellular and Molecular Immunology (Abbas, Lichtman & Pillai); Roitt's Essential Immunology
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