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Pathology · single question

SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus) is an example of which type of hypersensitivity reaction?

  1. Type IV (delayed, cell-mediated)
  2. Type I (IgE-mediated, immediate)
  3. Type II (cytotoxic, antibody-mediated)
  4. Type III (immune complex-mediated)
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: D. Type III (immune complex-mediated)

  • A. Type IV (delayed-type, T-cell mediated) hypersensitivity includes contact dermatitis and tuberculin reaction; SLE involves antibody-mediated immune complex deposition, not T-cells.
  • B. Type I hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis, allergic rhinitis) is IgE-mediated and involves mast cell degranulation; SLE is not Type I.
  • C. Type II hypersensitivity (e.g., blood transfusion reactions, autoimmune hemolytic anemia) involves antibodies directed against cell surface antigens; SLE has a more complex immune complex pathogenesis.
  • D. Correct. SLE is a Type III (immune complex-mediated) hypersensitivity reaction. Antigen-antibody complexes deposit in tissues (kidneys, joints, skin, blood vessels), activating complement and causing inflammation.

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