To use all functions of this page, please activate cookies in your browser.
my.bionity.com
With an accout for my.bionity.com you can always see everything at a glance – and you can configure your own website and individual newsletter.
- My watch list
- My saved searches
- My saved topics
- My newsletter
Serum sicknessSerum sickness is a reaction to an antiserum derived from an animal source. It is a type of hypersensitivity, specifically immune complex (type 3) hypersensitivity. Serum sickness typically develops up to ten days after exposure to the antiserum, and symptoms are similar to an allergic reaction. However, it is different from anaphylaxis, since the symptoms are not instantaneous (onset is typically 2-4 weeks after exposure). Additional recommended knowledgeCausesSerum sickness can be developed as a result of exposure to antibodies derived from animals. These serums are generally administered in order to prevent infection. When the antiserum is given, the human immune system can mistake the proteins present for harmful antigens. The body produces antibodies, which combine with these proteins to form immune complexes. These complexes can cause more reactions, and cause the symptoms detailed below. Serum sickness can also be caused by several drugs, notably penicillin based medicines. SymptomsSymptoms can take as long as fourteen days after exposure to appear, and may include:
TreatmentSymptoms will generally disappear on their own, although corticosteroids may be prescribed in the most severe forms. Antihistamine may also be used. |
This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article "Serum_sickness". A list of authors is available in Wikipedia. |