Physiology & Biochemistry · single question
Lupus erythematosus is an example of which type of hypersensitivity reaction?
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Correct answer: C. Type III
SLE is the classic example of a Type III (immune complex-mediated) hypersensitivity reaction, where circulating antigen-antibody complexes deposit in tissues (skin, kidneys, joints) and trigger complement-mediated inflammation and damage.
- A. Type IV (cell-mediated/delayed hypersensitivity): contact dermatitis, tuberculin reaction, transplant rejection. Not SLE.
- B. Type I (immediate/IgE-mediated): allergic reactions, anaphylaxis, asthma, hay fever. Not SLE.
- C. Type II (antibody-mediated/cytotoxic): Graves disease, myasthenia gravis, hemolytic transfusion reactions. Not SLE.
- D. Type III (immune complex-mediated): SLE, rheumatoid arthritis, serum sickness, post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. In SLE, antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) form immune complexes that deposit in tissues (kidney, skin, joints) and activate complement, causing inflammation. SLE is the classic Type III hypersensitivity.
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