Hypersensitivity

This is a type of reaction that is associated with the immune system and how it deals with the encounter of foreign substances in the body that it feels are a threat to health. Upon the first encounter with an unknown allergen, the immune system will store the particular protein associated with this allergen in its ‘memory’(known as pre sensitisation). Should the encounter happen again the immune system will immediately be alerted to the presence of this ‘remembered’ protein and immediately release IgE. The IgE will prompt the release of histamines in the affected area and an allergic response will occur.