A Bad Reaction

By James A. Hewlett

Abstract

This case involves the transfer of a food allergy to a patient who received a combined kidney and liver transplant from a donor who died as the result of an allergic reaction. In addition to learning about the various roles of immune cells, the physiology of anaphylaxis, and the function of antibodies in immune physiology, students explore concepts related to histocompatibilities, organ donation, and organ rejection. The case is appropriate for use in a course in human physiology, a combined course in human anatomy and physiology, or an introductory course in immunology.

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Date Posted

02/27/2002

Overview

Objectives

Understand the physiology related to the sensitization to an allergen.
Understand physiology related to the allergic response that is produced during a secondary exposure to an antigen that an immune system is sensitized to.
Learn the difference between immediate, subacute, or delayed hypersensitivity.
Know the symptoms of anaphylaxis and the systemic manifestations of an immediate hypersensitivity reaction.
Learn about the various classes of immunoglobulins and the role of IgE in an allergic response.
Understand the role of T and B cells in the specific immune response.
Understand how an allergen, helper T cells, B cells, IgE, and basophils interact during an allergic response.
Understand the role of HLA (MHC) in organ compatibility, donation, and rejection.
Understand the difference between antigen and allergen.

Keywords

Allergic reaction; allergen; peanut allergy; anaphylaxis; antigen; antibody; major histocompatibility complex; MHC; human leukocyte antigen; HLA; immune response; organ donation; tissue donation; liver transplant; kidney transplant; organ rejection

Subject Headings

Medicine (General)

Physiology

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper division

FORMAT

PDF

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

LANGUAGE

English

TYPE/METHODS

Directed, Jig-Saw

Teaching Notes & Answer Key

Teaching Notes

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Answer Key

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