Entire semester Together Flashcards
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What is an allergy?
A heightened sensitivity to a foreign protein called an allergen, elicited through ingestion, contact, or inhalation.
Define rhinitis.
Eosinophilic inflammation of the nasal mucosa and paranasal sinuses resulting from an IgE-mediated reaction.
List the manifestations of allergic rhinitis.
- Nasal congestion
- Obstructed airflow
- Increased mucous production
- Drainage
What is the initial phase of allergic rhinitis onset in atopic individuals?
Sensitization followed by subsequent reexposure to a designated allergen.
What role do antigen-presenting cells play in allergic rhinitis?
They assimilate a low-dose exposure of the antigen and present it to helper T lymphocytes.
What cytokines are produced by activated helper T lymphocytes?
- IL-4
- IL-5
- IL-13
What triggers mast cell activation in allergic rhinitis?
The binding of specific antigens to IgE antibodies affixed to mast cells.
What are the hallmark acute symptoms of allergic rhinitis?
- Rhinorrhea
- Nasal congestion
- Nasal irritation
- Sneezing
What is the role of histamine in allergic rhinitis?
Stimulates sensory nerve endings of the Vth nerve, eliciting sneezing and prompts mucous gland secretion.
When does the late phase response of allergic rhinitis occur?
4-6 hours after antigen stimulation.
What is the duration of symptoms in the late phase of allergic rhinitis?
Symptoms can last for about 18-24 hours.
What cells predominantly infiltrate the affected area during the late phase?
- T lymphocytes
- Basophils
- Eosinophils
What is the significance of cytokines in the late phase response?
They orchestrate the release of mediators and facilitate the infiltration of inflammatory cells.
What are some well-known risk factors for allergic rhinitis?
- Atopy
- Asthma
- Eczema
- Other allergies
How does parental history factor into allergic rhinitis risk?
A parental history of allergic rhinitis, asthma, and pollen allergies is a documented risk factor.
What are common food allergens that cause allergic rhinitis in infancy and childhood?
- Milk
- Eggs
- Soy
- Wheat
What role does the gut microbiota play in allergic disease pathogenesis?
The composition of the gut microbiota influences immune function and may play a role in allergic diseases.
List the four main classes of microbiomes.
- Bacteroidetes
- Actinobacteria
- Firmicutes
- Proteobacteria
What is dysbiosis?
An imbalance in gut microbiota associated with atopy and allergic disorders.
How can dysbiosis affect allergic rhinitis?
It can disrupt Th1/Th2 homeostasis, affecting immunotolerance and increasing the risk of allergic rhinitis.
Fill in the blank: Probiotics may be one of the options clinicians may use to improve their patients’ quality of life since treating AR is _______.
[challenging]
What is the gut microbiome diversity in allergic rhinitis (AR) patients?
Reduced gut microbiome diversity
Increased Bacteroidetes; decreased Actinobacterium, Proteobacterium, and Escherichia coli.
What are potential biomarkers associated with allergic rhinitis?
Increased:
* S. Shigella
* E. coli
* Parabacteroides
* Lachnoclostridium
* Dialister
Decreased:
* Oxalobacter
* Clostridiales
These markers indicate shifts in microbial populations in AR patients.
Which microbiome metrics are observed in AR patients?
Lower diversity indices (Chao1 and Shannon)
* More abundant Bacteroidetes
* Reduced Firmicutes