Module 3 - Immunologic Disorders

Introduction
The human body is menaced by a host of potential invaders— allergens as well as microbial
organisms—that constantly threaten its defenses. After penetrating those defenses, these
allergens and organisms, if allowed to continue unimpeded, disrupt the body’s enzyme systems
and destroy its vital tissues. To protect against these agents, the body is equipped with an
elaborate defense system.
The epithelial cells that coat the skin and make up the lining of the respiratory, gastrointestinal,
and genitourinary tracts provide the first line of defense against microbial invaders. The structure
and continuity of these surfaces and their resistance to penetration are initial deterrents to
invaders.
One of the most effective defense mechanisms is the body’s capacity to equip itself rapidly with
weapons (antibodies) individually designed to meet each new invader, namely, specific protein
antigens. Antibodies react with antigens in a variety of ways: (1) by coating the antigens’
surfaces if they are particular substances, (2) by neutralizing the antigens if they are toxins, and
(3) by precipitating the antigens out of solution if they are dissolved.
The antibodies prepare the antigens so that the phagocytic cells of the blood and the tissues can
dispose of them. However, although this system is normally protective, in some cases the body
produces inappropriate or exaggerated responses to specific antigens, and the result is an allergic
or hypersensitivity disorder.

Objectives
At the end of the module completion, the student will be able to:
 Define terms which are important in the study of the immune system.
 Describe measures to prevent and manage anaphylaxis.

Learning Activities

Instruction: Answer the following questions, kindly include proper citation of your sources and
references. (Formatting- Font: Times New Roman, Font size: 12)

1. Define the following terms:

a. Allergen – An allergen is a type of antigen that produces an abnormally vigorous
immune response in which the immune system fights off a perceived threat that would
otherwise be harmless to the body. Such reactions are called allergies
b. Allergy – a damaging immune response by the body to a substance, especially pollen,
fur, a particular food, or dust, to which it has become hypersensitive.
c. Antibody – a blood protein produced in response to and counteracting a specific antigen.
Antibodies combine chemically with substances which the body recognizes as alien, such
as bacteria, viruses, and foreign substances in the blood.
d. Antigen – In immunology, an antigen is a molecule or molecular structure, such as may
be present at the outside of a pathogen, that can be bound to by an antigen-specific
antibody or B cell antigen receptor.
 e. Atopy – Refers to the genetic tendency to develop allergic diseases such as allergic
rhinitis, asthma and atopic dermatitis (eczema). Atopy is typically associated with
heightened immune responses to common allergens, especially inhaled allergens and
food allergens.
f. Bradykinin – a compound released in the blood in some circumstances that causes
contraction of smooth muscle and dilation of blood vessels. It is a peptide comprising
nine amino-acid residues.
g. Erythema – Redness of the skin that results from capillary congestion. Erythema can
occur with inflammation, as in sunburn and allergic reactions to drugs.
h. Histamine – a compound which is released by cells in response to injury and in allergic
and inflammatory reactions, causing contraction of smooth muscle and dilation of
capillaries.
i. Hypersensitivity – An exaggerated immune response to a specific antigen or drug.
Hypersensitivity reactions, including allergic reactions, can be life-threatening.
j. Immunoglobulins – Is a large, Y-shaped protein produced mainly by plasma cells that is
used by the immune system to neutralize pathogens such as pathogenic bacteria and
viruses.
k. Leukotrienes – Are any of a group of biologically active compounds, originally isolated
from leukocytes. They are metabolites of arachidonic acid, containing three conjugated
double bonds.
l. Prostaglandins – Are any of a group of compounds with varying hormone-like effects,
notably the promotion of uterine contractions. They are cyclic fatty acids.
m. Serotonin – Is a compound present in blood platelets and serum, which constricts the
blood vessels and acts as a neurotransmitter.
n. T-lymphocytes – T cell, also called T lymphocyte, type of leukocyte (white blood cell)
that is an essential part of the immune system. T cells are one of two primary types of
lymphocytes B cells being the second type that determine the specificity of immune
response to antigens (foreign substances) in the body.
o. Urticaria – A rash of round, red welts on the skin that itch intensely, sometimes with
dangerous swelling, caused by an allergic reaction, typically to specific foods.

SOURCES: GOOGLE DICTIONARY

WIKIPEDIA
2. A 23-year-old college student has developed symptoms of severe seafood allergy. She is to receive instructions about self-administration of epinephrine if she experiences
anaphylaxis.
Develop a teaching plan for her and identify outcomes to measure the effectiveness of your teaching. Given her allergy to seafood, what other teaching or counseling is needed?

Purpose: To provide the patient with information necessary for self-administration of Epinephrine as prescribed.
Goal: The patient will be able to perform Epinephrine injections independently according to treatment regimen.
OBJECTIVES CONTENT METHOD OF TIME ALLOTED RESOURCES METHOD OF
INSTRUCTION EVALUATION
Following a 30 minutes
teaching session, patients will
be able to:

 Know the importance of Importance of self-  Lecture  5 minutes  Powerpoint / Online  Question and Answer
proper epinephrine administration. Session
administration, and what is Epinephrine Definition.
epinephrine.

 Know the different Contraindications and  Lecture  5 minutes  Powerpoint / Online  Question and Answer
considerations when Indications of use of Session
injecting epinephrine epinephrine.

 Identify the anatomical sites Location of anatomical  Lecture / Video  5 minutes  Video Presentation/  Question and Answer
for epinephrine injection injection sites. Online Session
with 100% accuracy.

 Patients will be able to Demonstration of self-  Lecture  10 minutes  Powerpoint/ Online  Return Demonstration
demonstrate self- administration Session
administration of
Epinephrine

 Patients will have thorough Benefits and advantages of  Lecture  5 minutes  Powerpoint/ Online  Question and Answer
understanding on the self-administration of Session
importance of accurate Epinephrine
administration of
Epinephrine.