The document traces the complex path of allergic and inflammatory reactions. It begins when an allergen enters the body and attracts antibodies like Immunoglobulin E (IgE). This causes the production of enzymes like Phospholipase A2 which break down cell wall phospholipids and produce inflammatory mediators like arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid then interacts with enzymes like cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase to produce prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes. These mediators cause symptoms of inflammation like increased mucus and the attraction of cells and mediators that perpetuate the allergic response.

1. Attracts antibodies such as Immunoglobulin E (IgE)
Antibodies stimulate adrenergic receptors in
epithelial cells, which initiates the production of the enzyme Phospholipase A2
TRACING THE COMPLEX PATH OF ALLERGIC AND INFLAMMATORY REACTIONS.
ALLERGEN ENTERS EYE
Phospholipase A2 breaks down phospholipids that reside in the cell wall. This produces…
Degranulation causes the enzyme phospholipase C to increase intercellular calcium levels in mast cells which initiates the production of phospholipase A2
Inhibited by Steroids
Arachidonic Acid.
Interacts with Cyclooxygenase
Interacts with Lipoxygenase
Inhibited by NSAIDs
Cyclooxygenase metabolizes arachidonic acid to produce…
Lipoxygenase metabolizes arachidonic acid to produce…
Prostaglandins
Thromboxanes
Leukotrienes
Increase Mucous Secretion
Attract red blood cells (platelets)
Attract white blood cells
Stimulate nerve endings responsible for Itching and Pain (Nociceptors)
Cause Vasodilation and/or Increased vascular permeability
Counteracted by Vasoconstrictors
Heparin
IgE binds to the allergen, then attaches to mast cells, causing degranulation
Inhibited by Mast cell Stabilizers
Inhibited by Mast Cell Stabilizers
Mast cell Degranulation releases inflammatory mediators
Complement
Attracts other mediators
Attracts white blood cells
Allows bradykinin in RBCs to enter area
Promotes white blood cell migration to area
Bradykinin
Eosinophilic Chemotactic Factor
Histamine
Platelet activating factor. (Attracts RBCs)
Inhibited by Antihistamines
Reproduced by
Dr. Emereole C.A (O.D)
Department of Optometry,
Imo State University, Owerri, 2013.