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Anaphylaxis

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Submitted By LSCrumpton
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Levina Crumpton Biology 112

Anaphylaxis is an acute immediate life threatening Type I hypersensitivity reaction marked by sudden onset of vascular swelling in the skin and respiratory distress. A severe reaction may lead to vascular collapse leading to shock if not recognized in a timely manner. The reaction can occur up to one hour after re-exposure to an antigen. Local anaphylaxis results from having a reaction to something in the air and can be relieved with antihistamines such as Benadryl. Anaphylactic shock occurs when bee venom, antihypertensive medication or penicillin is introduced into the bloodstream and that can be relieved with and injection of epinephrine.
The reaction is caused by the release of chemical mediators from mast cells and basophils. Ige on basophiles promotes the release of other mediators such as leukotriene’s histamines and serotonin. You also have mediators that activate other pathways of inflammation such as Interleukin (IL)–4 and IL-13 which are cytokines that’s regulates inflammation. This is the initial generation of antibody and inflammatory cell responses to anaphylaxis. Additional mediators include prostaglandin which is a lipid compounds that regulate the contraction and relaxation of smooth muscle tissue during the inflammatory process.
The organ systems that are involved are: respiratory in which you experience throat tightness, shortness of breath, wheezing, and nasal congestion. Cardiovascular: dizziness, weakness, increases in blood pressure and chest pains. Gastrointestinal: vomiting cramps and diarrhea. For the integumentary some reaction are swelling hives, itching of the skin, flushing and swelling of the tongue. Overall the general appearance of a person experiencing anaphylaxis will appear restless and anxious depending on the severity of the affected

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