Sensitization of the body develops. Meaning of the word sensitization. New explanatory and word-formative dictionary of the Russian language, T. F. Efremova

Dictionary of medical terms

sensitization (French sensibilisation from Latin sensibilis sensitive)

increased sensitivity of the body or individual excitable formations, for example. sensory organs, to the influence of any environmental or internal environmental factor.

Explanatory dictionary of the Russian language. D.N. Ushakov

sensitization

(se), sensitization, pl. no, w. (from Latin sensibilis - sensitive).

Stimulating the body's sensitivity to the effects of something. (physiol.).

Increased sensitivity to light rays (photographic plates; photographs).

New explanatory dictionary of the Russian language, T. F. Efremova.

sensitization

Increasing the body's sensitivity to the effects of certain things. irritants.

Increasing the photosensitivity of photographic materials (in photography).

Encyclopedic Dictionary, 1998

sensitization

SENSIBILIZATION (from Latin sensibilis - sensitive) in biology - increasing the sensitivity of the animal and human body (or individual organs, for example sensory organs) to the effects of any irritants (mainly chemical). Sensitization underlies a number of allergic diseases.

sensitization

SENSIBILIZATION photographic introduction of sensitizers into a photographic emulsion to increase natural photosensitivity and expand the spectral region of additional photosensitivity in the yellow-green, red and infrared ranges.

Sensitization

Sensitization :

Sensitization is a term in immunology.
Sensitization in dermatology is an increase in the body's sensitivity to irritants, causing an allergic reaction.
Sensitization in psychology is an increase in the sensitivity of nerve centers under the influence of a stimulus.
Sensitization in physics is the transfer of excitation energy from one molecule to another.
Sensitization in photography is an increase in the photosensitivity of photographic material.
- Spectral sensitization - giving photographic material sensitivity to certain spectral ranges.

Sensitization (immunology)

Biological sensitization (, - sensitive) - the body acquires a specific increased sensitivity to foreign substances - allergens, increasing its sensitivity to the effects of irritants.

This phenomenon underlies a group of allergic diseases. The process of sensitization makes the body very susceptible to specific substances, which can be caused by bacteria and viruses (their antigens and toxins), chemicals, including many drugs, industrial poisons, etc. Repeated exposure to irritants provokes a number of allergic reactions, for example, urticaria, anaphylaxis, etc.

Upon contact with the pathogen, antibodies are produced, that is, immunity can resist a certain disease.

Most often, however, sensitization occurs when the immune system perceives harmless substances as pathogens and resists them. The most severe reactions occur with asthma, food allergies and hay fever.

The period of sensitization is the time between the first contact with the irritant and the occurrence of increased sensitivity to it. This period can last from several days to several years. In a child, sensitization sometimes develops simultaneously with immunity.

Sensitization (photo)

Non-sensitized photographic materials- sensitive to ultraviolet, violet and blue parts of the spectrum.

Orthochromatic- sensitized to green and yellow rays, up to 560nm or up to 590nm.

Isoorthochromatic- sensitivity has been equalized in the range of 400-590nm.

Isochromatic- sensitized with polymethine dyes up to 650 nm. The lack of sensitization in the region of 650-720 nm is hardly noticeable to the eye due to the fact that this range appears very dark to the eye. Therefore, isochromatic materials have long prevailed in all genres of photography, except for scenes with a varied number of shades of red. The additional sensitivity of isochromatic materials is 65% of the total in incandescent light, and about 32% in daylight. The use of a yellow filter with such materials further improves color rendering in the blue-violet region. Laboratory processing of isochromatic materials can be carried out under dark red lighting rather than in complete darkness.

Panchromatic- sensitive to the entire range of visible light. Early panchromatic materials had a sensitivity dip in the green range that reached approximately 1.5 exposure stops.

Isopanchromatic- panchromatic with equalized sensitivity in the green area. All modern photographic emulsions for black and white photography are made isopanchromatic.

Infrachromatic- sensitized to infrared radiation, usually 760-920 nm, sometimes up to 1200 nm. They have a natural sensitivity to the blue-violet and UV parts of the spectrum. When using these photographic materials for shooting in infrared rays, you should use an infrared filter, otherwise the image will be formed mainly by the blue-violet part of the spectrum.

Paninfrachromatic- sensitized to IR and the entire range of visible light.

Sensitization (psychology)

Sensitization- a concept in psychology that explains the phenomenon that people, after repeated use of an addictive substance, regardless of the feeling of pleasure it causes and often despite the understanding of harm, experience even greater addiction and craving for repeated consumption. The concept was proposed based on experiments in which experimental animals were administered psychostimulants, and repeated administration of the drug caused an enhanced psychomotor reaction to the previous dose. It is believed that the cause of this phenomenon may be related to persistent changes in the nucleus accumbens, a component of the so-called pleasure center.

Sensitization is a substance-specific, non-cross-reactive effect that varies among individuals, although it can also be an effect of many addictive drugs. This process is the opposite of drug-forming stimuli. This is how “drive-driven” motivation arises with an impulsive urge to action. This motivation manifests itself primarily in subcortical centers such as the striatum. This so-called “excitatory sensitization” can explain the phenomenon that a patient dependent on a substance, regardless of the subjective feeling of pleasure, experiences a feeling that forces him to find and take the corresponding drug again. At the same time, this process and the following actions and actions in their purposefulness are not perceived by the patient as violent, since in this case it does not necessarily come to a conscious, irresistible need for the corresponding substance.

The neurobiological correlate of sensitization processes is not entirely clear. Perhaps this process makes a decisive contribution to the so-called “drug memory”, and the interaction of many structures (including the hippocampus) is believed to be involved in its implementation. In this regard, one can think about the involvement of persistent changes in dopaminergic nerve transmission in the nucleus accumbens, for example, an increase in dopamine activity or sensitization of D1-dopamine receptors. It is believed that the development of long-term potentiation in the ventral striatum and the resulting change in glutaminergic nerve transmission may play a decisive role in this case.

Examples of the use of the word sensitization in literature.

Treatment comes down to prescribing drugs that regulate the functions of the nervous system, reducing sensitization body, giving a general strengthening effect: diphenhydramine, pipolfen, tavetil, vitamins, ultraviolet irradiation.

It has been established that as a result of this sensitization Severe general organ diseases may occur: heart, kidneys, joints, eyes, etc.

This is explained by the action of both protective inhibition in conditions of excessive stimulation and overexcitation, and the sharpening of sensitivity, mainly due to the development of mental sensitization or idiosyncrasies - conditioned reflex pathological stereotypes of response.

Leprosy is considered a low-contagious disease, in which the decisive factor is prolonged, repeated contact, during which sensitization body.

With repeated administration of the drug, the body's sensitivity to it may increase - this phenomenon is called sensitization.

If moving to a parallel world requires preliminary sensitization object - which means this process should be worked out.

You understand, once sensitization It happened to you, but it may simply not work out with strangers.

In the future, it may worsen, and this is pus from the fistulous tract with an unpleasant odor from the mouth, sensitization the body with toxic breakdown products.

An important role is played by intrauterine sensitization fetus due to the monotonous diet of a pregnant woman with daily consumption of a large number of foods - allergens.

It is necessary to eliminate foci of chronic infection from where sensitization body.

I tried to do this with crystals of cyanine - a dye that is used for sensitization photographic plates to infrared rays.

The Western method of initiation is to give power to the aspirant, not to sensitization, and further in the concentration of subtle forces through ritual.

Do we have the right to call sensitization from anyone without his consent?

This unfavorable dynamics, namely mental sensitization in relation to any threat coming from outside, this explains the intolerance of external negative influences, when, for example, fear, which in other cases passes after some time, occupies a key place in these children’s experiences.

Mental sensitization incomprehensible to others, paradoxically acute affective reactions to insignificant stimuli are explained: remarks made in a calm tone, receiving a grade that was not the one expected, or lack of praise.

The term “sensitization” is used in medicine to describe the process by which various external stimuli have an increased effect on the human body. In addition, this term is used to characterize the process of producing antibodies to infectious agents and other pathogens of various diseases. Based on these processes, desensitization programs are drawn up. Let's look at what sensitization is and consider this concept in various branches of medicine.

Sensitization of an organism in biology is an increase in its sensitivity to the effects of irritants.

Sensitization in medicine is a process as a result of which the human body actively reproduces antibodies that are used to protect against pathogens of various diseases.

The foundation of various desensitization techniques is built on the principles of this process. The desensitization program is based on reducing the influence of provoking factors, which eliminates the body's susceptibility to pathogens. Upon re-entry into the body, the immune system triggers the synthesis of antibodies that destroy harmful microorganisms.

Sensitization is one of the important components of such a branch of medicine as immunology. As an example, let us consider a situation in which an infectious agent enters the human body. Infection with a virus allows the immune system to trigger the creation of antibodies to destroy harmful microorganisms. The creation of these antibodies allows the immune system to prevent relapse of the disease and counteract the re-entry of bacteria and viruses. Thus, human immunity protects internal systems from dangerous consequences that could cause death.

The term “sensitization” is mentioned quite often in allergology. It is used to describe the development and manifestation of different types of allergic reactions. Household sensitization is the effect of “household” allergens on the human body, which leads to the appearance of allergy symptoms. Based on sensitization, specialists use various methods that help identify the degree of sensitivity to various allergy triggers.

Also, the term “sensitization” is actively used in the field of psychology to explain the phenomenon of increased sensitivity of the nervous system to the effects of various stimuli. According to experts, sensitization of the body has a close relationship with the processes of sensory adaptation. It is important to note that the phenomenon in question is observed in all living organisms. The only difference is the intensity of this process. At its core, sensitization is an increase in the degree of sensitivity, which is the result of exposure to systematic exercises or the actions of various analyzers. Thus, sensitization of the body can be identified through special training.

The process of sensitization makes the body very susceptible to specific substances

According to experts, there are two areas that have an impact on the sensitivity of analyzers. The first group includes various pathologies that disrupt the functioning of sensory analyzers. Such pathologies include blindness. In this example, sensitization of the body is caused by the need to carry out compensatory actions. The second group includes various actions that increase the sensitivity of the analyzers. In this case, importance is given to the specific requirements of various types of activities.

Sensitization of the senses

The influence of the environment has a high power over human sensitivity, which causes internal modifications in the body. The term “sensitivity” denotes the simplest mental processes that reflect the characteristics of surrounding objects, which are the basis of the material world. In addition, this term is used to describe an internal state that is achieved due to the impact of external and internal stimuli on certain receptors.

In a general sense, sensitization of the body is an increase in sensitivity due to the targeted influence of various factors. Thus, the process of interaction of senses is a transformation of certain analyzers under external influence, which leads to changes in many receptors. The following pattern is quite interesting: a strong influence of stimuli that have a coordinated effect reduces the susceptibility of receptors, and a weak influence increases sensitivity.

Sensitizing factors are irritants that increase the sensitivity of the human psyche. Let's take a look at the most common types of factors:

The combined action of receptors aimed at enhancing their interaction– weak expression of sensitivity in one area increases the strength of expression of saturation in other areas. For example, slight cooling of the skin increases the skin's sensitivity to light.
Psychological attitudes– as a result of a long wait for important events, the human psyche becomes maximally susceptible to the action of various irritating factors. For example, we can cite a situation in which waiting to go to the doctor can increase the severity of the pain syndrome.
Experience gained– certain actions contribute to the development of various sensory analyzers. An example is perfumers who, upon hearing the smell of a perfume, can break its notes into dozens of components.
Effect on internal receptors of various medications– the use of special pharmaceutical products can have both positive and negative effects on the degree of sensitivity of internal receptors.

Sensitization (from the Latin sensibilis - “sensitive”) is the acquisition by the body of increased sensitivity to foreign substances

An increase in the degree of excitation of some systems leads to a decrease in the sensitivity of other receptors. The process of irradiation of excitation is associated with the interaction of feelings that are physiological in nature. Most analyzer centers are concentrated in the cerebral cortex.

According to Nobel Prize laureate Ivan Petrovich Pavlov, even minor irritating factors increase the excitation of the nervous system, which extends to the degree of sensitivity of other analyzer systems. Exposure to intense stimuli leads to arousal, which is characterized as a tendency to concentrate. The above process affects the inhibition of many receptors, which leads to a decrease in their sensitivity.

Having studied the pattern of such changes, you can influence the body using specially selected stimuli. The effect of using specific side stimuli is expressed in the form of an increase in the sensitivity of interconnected receptors. This phenomenon has become a kind of basis for many practices used in the fight against drug addiction and alcoholism.

The process of sensitization to drugs and alcoholic beverages is based on the complex use of pharmaceutical products, whose action is aimed at creating a kind of barrier to harmful elements. Using this method allows you to induce a feeling of aversion to the use of mind-altering drugs. The effectiveness of this method of therapy is due to a significant reduction in cravings for the use of substances harmful to the body. After a certain period of time, people with alcohol and drug addiction experience a change in attitude towards their usual lifestyle. At one stage, the patient begins to enjoy his “liberation.” The phenomenon under consideration can be characterized as reflexes of an acquired nature. It should be mentioned that this method is used exclusively in clinical settings, where the patient is under constant medical supervision.

Sensitization in children

Many parents are concerned about the question of what child sensitization is. In this case, sensitization means an increase in the body’s activity to repeated exposure to various stimuli.

The result of this activity is increased sensitivity. This explains the fact that a single exposure to external stimuli may not provoke arousal, but repeated exposure to stimuli will force the child to perform a certain set of actions.

The influence of stimuli on the body is closely related to the age stage of development.

According to experts, the highest degree of severity of the phenomenon in question is observed in preschool age. In infancy, the work of the analytical centers is based on reflection, but as they grow older, their functionality increases. Sensory systems gradually increase in sensitivity, which reaches its peak between the ages of twenty and thirty. Further, the susceptibility of the receptors gradually declines. Human feelings are formed over many years and change throughout life. On their basis, a sensory organization is formed. It is important to note that personality formation may be based on limited sensory perception.

The loss of several analyzer systems can be compensated by an increase in the activity of other centers. As an example, we can say that people who are deaf have the ability to listen to music by touching a musical instrument that emits vibrations that are inaccessible to healthy people.

In the field of allergology, sensitization is an inflammatory response of the immune system to the action of allergens.

Synesthesia and sensitization Sensitization of the body can be caused by many external irritants that are present in the environment. Irritation of one analyzing system can cause different sensations that are characteristic both for it and for other receptors. This phenomenon is called “synesthesia”. This phenomenon can have many forms of expression. Often, most people experience synesthesia in the area of visual-auditory receptors. This phenomenon manifests itself in the form of visual images when exposed to certain sound stimuli.

The phenomenon of the relationship between synesthesia and sensitization is used as evidence of the existence of a close connection between analytical systems and the unity of sensitive sensors. This phenomenon is the basis for the technology of creating color music equipment that transforms sounds into color images. The formation of taste sensations in the form of a reaction to the influence of auditory sensors is much less common.

It is important to note that synesthesia is observed only in a small number of individuals. Examples of this phenomenon include gustatory synesthesia, which is characterized as taste sensations evoked by certain phrases. So the mention of lemon can provoke a feeling of citric acid in the mouth.

Sensitization in psychology

The concept of sensitization is used in psychology to describe the process of increasing the sensitivity of nerve receptors with the help of external stimuli. Sensitization is used by musicians to develop auditory perception, and by tasters to develop taste and olfactory sensors. From a psychological point of view, such an impact can be both short-term and long-term.

Long-term sensitization is the result of unconscious actions or training aimed at achieving specific goals. The short-term phenomenon of excitation of nerve receptors is associated with taking medications or exposure to certain conditions, which contribute to aggravation of the senses. This method is used as a tool that creates a feeling of fear in the patient, which helps prevent the development of unfavorable situations.

Allergies are a common disease in the modern world. Doctors say that about 90% of the world's population suffers from allergies. However, not everyone has the same symptoms or diagnosis. The problem is based on sensitization of the body. Let's try to understand the essence of this process and its types.

In medical practice, sensitization of the body in children and adults is the process of increasing sensitivity to irritants as a result of repeated interaction with them. This phenomenon is the basis of allergies. The period of sensitization is the period of time during which, after the first contact with an irritant, increased sensitivity to it develops.

Doctors identify several diverse reasons that can provoke sensitization:

Some people suffering from allergies are prone to this at the genetic level. In this case, the symptom of the disease often appears on the skin.
Allergies can develop against the background of dysfunctions of the central and peripheral nervous systems of a congenital or acquired type.
Hormonal imbalances are another cause of the disease. These include dysfunction of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, adrenal glands and glands of the reproductive system.
and chronic diseases of infectious origin that recur “help” to sensitize the body to certain substances.
With diseases of the kidneys and digestive system, the amount of toxins in the blood increases. Because of this, allergies develop.

There are several types of sensitization:

The type of sensitization that causes asthma in an advanced state is household.
Fungal sensitization results from contact with fungi. This phenomenon leads to bronchial asthma.
Food sensitization occurs as a result of heredity or diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Types of allergens and substances that cause allergic reactions

Depending on the type of allergen, treatment is prescribed. At the very beginning of diseases, it is important to determine what exactly causes the body’s reaction in order to treat them correctly. There are a large number of substances that cause allergies. They are divided into several groups:

Skin autosensitization - causes, ICD 10 code, is it contagious?

The international code for skin autosensitization according to ICD is L30.2. The prefix auto indicates that the process occurs independently. This is a skin disease of allergic origin. It manifests itself as skin inflammation. The disease can be identified by a pronounced symptom - redness. In addition, the patient is concerned about itching, discomfort, and peeling of the inflamed skin. A known type of reaction is dermatitis.

The disease develops as a result of interaction with certain external stimuli.

The following factors provoke it:

Taking medications without medical supervision and following dosage rules.
Taking dietary supplements.
Prolonged treatment with one drug.
Uncontrolled use of antibiotics.
Bad environmental situation.
Weak immunity affects the occurrence of allergic reactions.
Incorrect intake of potent substances.
Impact of vaccines and antibiotics.
Reaction to sleeping pills.
Taking aspirin and similar substances.
Ignoring hypersensitivity to the drugs used.

Skin sensitization is a disease with pronounced symptoms. Many people are concerned about whether it is contagious.

It is known that this disease is of allergic origin; it is not based on an infectious process. Based on this, we can conclude that it cannot be transmitted.

Basic methods of treating allergies with skin manifestations

Treatment of an allergic reaction on the skin takes a long time, as it is carried out in several stages. The main general way to get rid of it is by taking antihistamines, corticosteroids and external medications.

Antihistamines neutralize allergic reactions. They are allowed to be taken only under the supervision of a doctor, because only a specialist can determine the required effective dosage and monitor the body’s reaction. Among the advertised and well-known remedies, Suprastin and Tavegil can be distinguished. These medications, when taken incorrectly and due to the body's characteristics, cause side effects such as numbness and swelling. For allergies in childhood, it is allowed to take Cetirizine. Additionally, you can name Zyrtec, Claritin. Erius helps to quickly relieve itching, redness and swelling; this medicine has a minimum of contraindications and side effects.

The second stage consists of taking hormonal drugs - corticosteroids. They are responsible for suppressing allergic reactions. However, hormones must be taken with extreme caution.

External preparations relieve redness, itching and swelling resulting from sensitivity to the allergen. Unlike hormonal medications, gels and ointments are taken for a long time.

What is specific and nonspecific hyposensitization?

To get rid of allergies, hyposensitizing therapy is used. The prefix hypo speaks for itself. Hyposensitization is a decrease in the body's sensitivity to an irritant. In medical practice, a distinction is made between specific and nonspecific hyposensitization.

The basis of specific hyposensitization is the introduction of an allergen into the patient’s body with a gradual increase in the dosage of the substance. As a result, sensitivity to the stimulus decreases. Metabolism is normalized. Specific hyposensitization is used only if the patient is unable to stop contact with the allergen. Most often this occurs with allergies to dust, pollen, and microbes. Before the procedure, it is important to determine exactly what is causing the reaction. This is not so easy to do. To do this, a number of procedures are carried out: allergic skin tests are taken, specific immunoglobulin is determined. Then you need to determine how much allergen is needed to cause a reaction. Possible complications as a result of the introduction of the irritant - swelling. If redness, hives or swelling occur, increase the interval between injections or stop treatment. In case of asthma, specific sensitization is contraindicated.

Desensitization is a decrease in the sensitivity of the body.

Nonspecific hyposensitization is a treatment aimed at reducing sensitivity using medications. Allergoprotectors are used strictly at the appointed time of day and in a certain dosage. Lomuzol, Optikorm, Ditek, Nalkrom, Ketotifen are used for treatment. These drugs help desensitize the body to the irritant.

Attention! Each medicinal drug has a number of contraindications; ignoring them leads to side effects and deterioration of well-being.

Principles of treatment of bronchial asthma

The treatment of bronchial asthma is based on several principles. In order to quickly and effectively get rid of it, efforts must be made not only by the doctor and medications, but also by the patient. It is important to follow the specialist’s recommendations and monitor your well-being. Here are the basic principles of effective treatment.

General definition of sensitization

The concept of “sensitization” is inevitably used in all literary sources and Internet resources, including those intended for patients who do not have a medical education.

Without using this concept, it is impossible to explain the essence, approaches to them, and prevention.

However, ignorance of the definition of this concept can lead to initially misinterpretations of medical information on allergies.

In addition, even specialists with medical education (most often doctors who are not allergists-immunologists, but who deal with diseases associated with pathological reactions of the immune system) have often interpreted this concept incorrectly in the past.

Sensitized is an organism, organs, tissues and cells that have prepared sensitivity to a given agent and are capable of developing hypersensitivity reactions to it.

Since the allergic reaction is based on an immunological mechanism, allergic sensitization is highly specific to a specific substance of a protein nature - to an allergen or to the body’s own protein, which is modified by a simple substance attached to it (hapten).

The immunological specificity of reactions is determined by the presence of specific molecules that can bind only to a specific protein substance (antigen): soluble (specific antibodies or so-called factors of humoral immunity) or located on the surface of lymphocytes (specific receptors of lymphocytes for the antigen, clones of lymphocytes carrying these receptors are effector element of the so-called cellular immunity) (1).

Considering all of the above, sensitization in allergology and immunology can be considered the presence in the body (organs and tissues) of a prepared hypersensitivity to a specific antigen.

Sensitization is caused by the presence of humoral and cellular products of the immune system that specifically react with this antigen with the development of an immunopathological hypersensitivity reaction.

Features of allergic sensitization:

increased hypersensitivity,
high specificity of allergens: antigens causing this increased hypersensitivity,
the presence at the basis of sensitization of specific antibodies or lymphocytes carrying specific receptors for a specific allergen.

This meaning is embedded in the concept of sensitization as a state of the body.

In the medical literature, the word sensitization can also refer to the process of acquiring this condition during initial contact with an allergen and the process of producing specific antibodies (immunoglobulins) or lymphocytes that are specific to the allergen and cause a hypersensitivity reaction upon repeated contact. That is, sensitization is everything that happens in the first, immunological, reaction.

Sensitization in various types of immunopathological reactions

The processes of sensitization formation have their own characteristics for each

In the first type of immunopathological reactions (anaphylaxis), which occurs in most allergic diseases, sensitization to the allergen occurs when B lymphocytes produce specific immunoglobulins E.

These immunoglobulins E bind to receptors on mast cells that carry mediators of allergic inflammation.

Upon repeated contact with the IgE allergen, they are fixed on mast cells and cross-bind with the antigenic determinants of the allergen.

This leads to the release of mediators of allergic inflammation by mast cells with the development of symptoms of an allergic disease. That is, in the first (anaphylactic) type of allergic reactions, the molecular basis of sensitization is allergen-specific IgE antibodies.

Their appearance in itself does not mean the occurrence of an allergic disease, which worsens upon contact with an allergen.

If blood tests reveal specific IgE to an allergen, or if skin tests are positive for an allergen, but there is no history of symptoms of an allergic reaction to this allergen, this condition is called latent sensitization.

With it, the appearance of a clinically pronounced allergy in the future cannot be accurately predicted. It may never appear in the patient.

In the second (cytotoxic) type of immunopathological reactions, the basis of sensitization are antibodies of the IgG IgM class, which bind to the cell surface antigen and attract complement components and macrophages to destroy the cell.

Among allergic diseases, the second type of immunopathological reactions is one of the mechanisms of drug allergies.

In the third (immune complex) type of immunopathological reactions, the basis of sensitization are complexes of IgG IgM class antibodies with dissolved antigens, which, circulating in the body’s fluid systems, trigger complement activation, platelet aggregation and tissue damage with the development of disease symptoms.

Examples of allergic diseases with this mechanism include drug allergies and serum sickness.

In the fourth type (delayed type hypersensitivity), the basis of sensitization is T-lymphocytes with allergen receptors, which produce cytokines, interaction factors between immune system cells, and attract macrophages to the site of the immune reaction. The lymphocytes themselves are transformed into killer cells that destroy target cells.

Examples of such reactions are allergic contact dermatitis and tuberculin reaction (1).

Conditions for the formation of sensitization in various types of immunopathological reactions

The following factors contribute to the formation of sensitization to an allergen:

a number of conditions relating to the nature of the allergen itself (the amount of allergen entering the body, its structure),
microenvironment at the site of development of the immune response itself (the allergen is in soluble form in the internal environment of the body or is associated with the cell surface),
hereditary characteristics of the body,
other (3).

Sensitization due to cross-allergy

An indispensable condition for the development of sensitization is the presence of primary contact with the allergen, during which antibodies, immune complexes or sensitized specific T-lymphocytes are formed to trigger a hypersensitivity reaction.

The fact of initial contact with allergens may not always be immediately obvious.

Thus, with sensitization to antibiotics, the patient may develop an allergic reaction after taking the drug for the first time in his life.

Primary contact with the drug, during which sensitization occurred, could have occurred through consumption of products in which the antibiotic was used as a preservative, or professional contact with the antibiotic. This often happens to healthcare workers.

The most common reason for the absence of an obvious indication in the anamnesis of primary contact with the allergen that caused sensitization to it is the phenomenon of allergens that are chemically similar to the one to which the allergic reaction developed.

For example, the cause of a food allergy to hazelnuts when eating them for the first time in life may be the presence of sensitization to cross-allergens from birch pollen.

A reaction to penicillin antibiotics may occur due to sensitization to cross-allergens from molds (2).

Incorrect use of the concepts “desensitization” and “hyposensitization”

Misunderstandings of the term "sensitization" among health care professionals and in older medical literature (written by physicians who are not allergists-immunologists) have historically occurred most often in the characterization of a number of drugs.

Calcium preparations, thiosulfates, cromoglycic acid preparations and even well-known antihistamines mistakenly called "desensitizing" or "hyposensitizing"(4, 5).

In fact, these drugs act on the mediators of allergic inflammation. They are not associated with an effect on the immunological stage of the allergic reaction. They act nonspecifically, reducing the intensity of symptoms of reactions to a variety of allergens and.

There are also immunomodulators, for which the indication for use is to reduce the severity of allergic reactions, regardless of the nature of the allergen that caused them (5).

On the one hand, the concept of “nonspecific hyposensitization” is justified by the effect of drugs on the immune system as characteristics of the course of treatment. WITH on the other hand, their action is not specific.

In practical medicine, they are used to a limited extent in the presence of contraindications to allergen-specific immunotherapy and in the absence of therapeutic allergens for it. Therefore, modern literature on the legality of using the term “nonspecific hyposensitivity” for courses of these drugs is little available.

A classic example of the correct use of the term “hyposesensitization” is its use as a synonym for the name.

Literature

Clinical allergology under. ed. acad. RAMS, prof. R.M. Khaitova Moscow "MEDpress-inform" 2002 UDC 616-056.3 BBK 52.5 K49 pp. 26-33, 428-431, 436
P.V. Kolkhir Evidence-based allergology-immunology. "Practical Medicine" Moscow 2010 UDC 616-056.3+615.37 BBK 55.8+52.54 K61 pp. 26, 74-80
R.M. Khaitov, G.A. Ignatieva, I.G. Sidorovich Immunology Moscow "Medicine" 2002 UDC 616-092:612.017 (075.8) BBK 52.5 X19 pp. 268-271
E.P. Shuvalov "Infectious diseases" textbook. 5th edition revised and expanded Moscow "Medicine" 2001 ISBN 5-225-04578-2 BBK 55.1 p. 355
A.N. Okorokov “Treatment of diseases of internal organs” Moscow “Medical literature” 2003 UDC 616/.4 BBK 54.1 volume 1 pp. 72-73

As a rule, this process is also accompanied by a natural mechanism of sensor adaptation. In other words, sensitization of the body is increased sensitivity due to the coordinated work of analyzers or regular exercise.

Indeed, sensitization can occur not only as a response to the influence of various natural stimuli, but also as a result of regular targeted exercises, forming in the form of compensation. In general, there are two mechanisms for the formation of such sensitization: a violation of one of the analyzers or the specifics of the activity.

For example, blindness is a disorder of the visual analyzers. As a rule, with the development of this pathology, a compensatory reaction occurs, which manifests itself in the form of increased sensitivity, that is, sensitization of analyzers of a different series. Another option for the formation of sensitization is the development of receptor sensitivity as a result of the body’s adaptability to certain specifics of constant work.

Sensitivity of sensations

A number of sensations in the human body are almost always subject to changes due to the influence of the environment or changes in the body itself. By definition, sensation is the simplest mental process. It is a combination of displaying a separate set of characteristics of objects, phenomena and effects of the surrounding world, as well as the internal state of the organism itself, which is a consequence of irritation of the receptors by all external factors.

The sensitivity of sensations from the point of view of psychology is an increase in sensitivity, an increase in sensitization, due to the targeted regular influence of stimuli from the surrounding world.

It should also be noted the concept of “interaction of sensations,” which implies the possibility of changing the sensitivity of one specific receptor as a result of the influence of various stimuli on another group of receptors. This pattern is reflected in another fact: a strong and intense influence of a stimulus on a receptor over time has a suppressive effect on its sensitivity, while a weak influence enhances it.

The term increased sensitization of the body also refers to an increase in the irritability of a certain type of receptor under the influence of a number of factors of a purely psychological nature.

These most often include:

General operation of receptor complexes and their further interaction with each other. With weak saturation of one specific factor and modality, the saturation of another increases. For example, with slight cooling of the skin surface, increased light sensitivity may be observed.
Various psychological attitudes. These include self-persuasion or recapitulation of previously experienced experiences, which can set one up for the clearest possible sensation of a particular stimulus expected in the near future. A striking example is the fear of visiting the dentist, which can worsen toothache.
Previous experience. This means that certain groups of analyzers acquire increased sensitivity during the practice of some specific activity. For example, experienced musicians are able to determine the relative duration of a note by ear, and tasters are able to recognize the specifics of a drink or food by taste.
The use of pharmacological drugs from a number or groups that can enhance the perception of a particular type of stimulus.

As a result of too high excitation and increased sensitivity of one analyzer system, a corresponding decrease in the same characteristics of the other system is observed. The process of interactions of purely physiological sensations is based on the mechanisms of irradiation and concentration of excitation in the cerebral cortex, where the centers of all groups of analyzers are located.

Knowledge of the patterns of receptor interaction, as well as increases and decreases in their sensitization, makes various treatment methods possible. They are produced through the use of one or another set of various types of artificial or natural stimuli, selected in the required quantity, quality, and with given configurations.

By influencing such a “set” of stimuli with a specifically specified strength and intensity, it is possible to experimentally increase or decrease the sensitization of the desired type of analyzers. This technique is increasingly recommended in the fight against alcohol or drug addiction.

Sensitization and adaptation process

In psychology and physiology, there are two main forms of changes in sensitivity, which are conventionally called sensitization and adequacy. The difference between adaptation and sensitization is that adaptation processes are focused directly on external factors and conditions. While sensitization depends on the internal state of the body.

It should also be noted that adaptation can be more clearly expressed in changes in the sensitivity of various external analyzers, for example, auditory or visual, being an indicator of the “plasticity” of the organism. In other words, adaptation is a kind of balancing mechanism that ensures the most optimal functioning of the body’s receptors in the face of environmental changes, as well as their protection from overload. In most cases, adaptation occurs almost instantly, however, in particularly extreme situations, three stages of adaptation can be distinguished: superficial decompensation, partial, and then a deep stage of compensation.

It is also important that all changes in the body that accompany adaptation processes relate to almost all levels of physiology. Thus, the effectiveness and speed of adaptation can directly depend on physical fitness, mental and general condition of the body itself.

Thus, sensitization and the adaptation process are quite clearly interconnected with each other, as well as with changes in the sensitivity of the analyzers. Widespread methods of sensitization and desensitization are based on this relationship.

The desensitization technique is an artificial stimulation of receptors whose activity inhibits the activity of another group of receptors that are “alarming”. In other words, this is the targeted activation of antagonist receptors. When a reaction is triggered in the body. Which is inherently incompatible with a stimulus that previously caused exclusively anxiety, the connection between the anxiety stimulus and its specific receptors weakens.

In contrast, the sensitization method involves inducing anxiety through the use of stressful factors and stimuli, causing the patient to experience fear or stress. This technique makes it possible for a person to adapt to extreme or stressful conditions that he may encounter in the future, in experimental, laboratory conditions.

Health: Concept of sensitization

General definition of sensitization

The concept of “sensitization” is inevitably used in all literary sources and Internet resources, including those intended for patients who do not have a medical education.

Without using this concept, it is impossible to explain the essence of allergic diseases, approaches to their diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

However, ignorance of the definition of this concept can lead to initially misinterpretations of medical information on allergies.

Sensitized is an organism, organs, tissues and cells that have prepared sensitivity to a given agent and are capable of developing hypersensitivity reactions to it.

Considering all of the above, sensitization in allergology and immunology can be considered the presence in the body (organs and tissues) of a prepared hypersensitivity to a specific antigen.

Features of allergic sensitization:

increased hypersensitivity,
high specificity of allergens: antigens causing this increased hypersensitivity,
the presence at the basis of sensitization of specific antibodies or lymphocytes carrying specific receptors for a specific allergen.

This meaning is embedded in the concept of sensitization as a state of the body.

Sensitization in various types of immunopathological reactions

The processes of sensitization formation have their own characteristics for each type of immunopathological reaction

In the first type of immunopathological reactions (anaphylaxis), which occurs in most allergic diseases, sensitization to the allergen occurs when B lymphocytes produce specific immunoglobulins E.

These immunoglobulins E bind to receptors on mast cells that carry mediators of allergic inflammation.

Upon repeated contact with the IgE allergen, they are fixed on mast cells and cross-bind with the antigenic determinants of the allergen.

This leads to the release of mediators of allergic inflammation by mast cells with the development of symptoms of an allergic disease. That is, in the first (anaphylactic) type of allergic reactions, the molecular basis of sensitization is allergen-specific IgE antibodies.

Their appearance in itself does not mean the occurrence of an allergic disease, which worsens upon contact with an allergen.

With it, the appearance of a clinically pronounced allergy in the future cannot be accurately predicted. It may never appear in the patient.

Among allergic diseases, the second type of immunopathological reactions is one of the mechanisms of drug allergies.

Examples of allergic diseases with this mechanism include drug allergies and serum sickness.

Examples of such reactions are allergic contact dermatitis and tuberculin reaction (1).

Conditions for the formation of sensitization in various types of immunopathological reactions

The following factors contribute to the formation of sensitization to an allergen:

a number of conditions relating to the nature of the allergen itself (the amount of allergen entering the body, its structure),
microenvironment at the site of development of the immune response itself (the allergen is in soluble form in the internal environment of the body or is associated with the cell surface),
hereditary characteristics of the body,
other (3).

Sensitization due to cross-allergy

The fact of initial contact with allergens may not always be immediately obvious.

Thus, with sensitization to antibiotics, the patient may develop an allergic reaction after taking the drug for the first time in his life.

The most common reason for the absence of an obvious indication in the anamnesis of primary contact with the allergen that caused sensitization to it is the phenomenon of cross-allergy to allergens that are chemically similar to the one to which the allergic reaction developed.

For example, the cause of a food allergy to hazelnuts when eating them for the first time in life may be the presence of sensitization to cross-allergens from birch pollen.

A reaction to penicillin antibiotics may occur due to sensitization to cross-allergens from molds (2).

Incorrect use of the concepts “desensitization” and “hyposensitization”

Calcium preparations, thiosulfates, cromoglycic acid preparations, and even well-known antihistamines have been erroneously called “desensitizing” or “hyposensitizing” (4, 5).

There are also immunomodulators, for which the indication for use is to reduce the severity of allergic reactions, regardless of the nature of the allergen that caused them (5).

On the one hand, the concept of “nonspecific hyposensitization” is justified by the effect of drugs on the immune system as a characteristic of the course of treatment. On the other hand, their action is not specific.

A classic example of the correct use of the term “hyposesensitization” is its use as a synonym for the name allergen-specific immunotherapy.

Sensitization

Great Soviet Encyclopedia. - M.: Soviet Encyclopedia. 1969-1978.

See what “Sensitization” is in other dictionaries:

sensitization - and, g. sensibilization f., German Sensibilization lat. sensibilis sensitive. 1. In photography, increasing the photosensitivity of materials (plates, films, paper). Optical sensitization. Spectral sensitization. BAS 1. After... ... Historical Dictionary of Gallicisms of the Russian Language

sensitization - (from Latin sensibilis sensitive) increased sensitivity of nerve centers under the influence of a stimulus. When sensory stimuli are used, S. is usually masked by the simultaneously developing process of sensory adaptation. Correlation... ... Great psychological encyclopedia

SENSIBILIZATION - (from Latin sensibilis sensitive) in biology, increasing the sensitivity of the animal and human body (or individual organs, for example sensory organs) to the effects of any irritants (mainly chemical). Sensitization lies in... ... Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

sensitization - I (from Latin sensibilis sensitive) (biol.), increasing the sensitivity of the animal and human body (or individual organs, for example sensory organs) to the effects of any irritants (mainly chemical). Sensitization lies in ... Encyclopedic Dictionary

sensitization - sensitivity Dictionary of Russian synonyms. sensitization noun, number of synonyms: 7 increased sensitivity (1) ... Dictionary of synonyms

SENSIBILIZATION - (from Latin, sensibilis sensitive), increased reactive sensitivity of cells and tissues. The concept of S. is the basis on which the entire doctrine of allergies (see), or allergic diseases is built: this or that disease is included in ... ... Great Medical Encyclopedia

SENSIBILIZATION - photographic introduction of sensitizers into a photographic emulsion to increase natural photosensitivity and expand the spectral region of additional photosensitivity in the yellow-green, red and infrared ranges ... Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

SENSIBILIZATION - [se], sensitization, pl. no, female (from Latin sensibilis sensible). 1. Exciting the body’s sensitivity to the effects of something (physiol.). 2. Increased sensitivity to light rays (photographic plates; photos). Explanatory... ... Ushakov's Explanatory Dictionary

Sensitization - 1) C. cells, the process of adsorption of soluble polysaccharide or protein Ags or Abs on the membranes of native or trypsin- or tannin-treated erythrocytes or other cells. Such sensitized cells acquire the ability to agglutinate... ... Dictionary of Microbiology

SENSIBILIZATION - (from the Latin sensibilis sensitive), increasing the body's sensitivity to the effects of any environmental or internal environmental factor (for example, an allergen). Ecological encyclopedic dictionary. Chisinau: Main editorial office of the Moldavian... ... Ecological Dictionary

sensitization - The phenomenon of increasing the mutagenic effect of ionizing radiation as a result of pre-treatment with non-mutagenic doses of other factors (cooling, infrared irradiation, various chemical compounds). [Arefyev V.A., Lisovenko L.A. English... ... Technical Translator's Guide

Sensitization of the body

Sensitization ISensitization (French sensibilisation, from Latin sensibilis - sensitive)

(biological), the body’s acquisition of specific hypersensitivity to foreign substances - allergens. S. can be caused by viruses (their antigens and toxins), chemicals, as well as many medications, industrial poisons, etc.

The sensitizing properties of different allergens depend not only on the amount of the substance administered, but also on its quality and the physical state of the antigens. Thus, the state of autosensitization appears more often to one’s own damaged proteins as a result of the formation of autoallergens in the body. Horse serum globulins, like red blood cells, are more anaphylactogenic than albumins and hemoglobin. Repeated action of allergens on a sensitized organism can lead to allergic types of anaphylaxis (See Anaphylaxis) - serum disease (See Serum disease), Arthus phenomenon (severe local inflammatory edema). The time between the first entry of an allergen into the body and the onset of hypersensitivity to it (this condition is called allergy (See Allergy)) is defined as the S. period; it can range from several days to several months and even years. The initial stages of the development of allergic reactions are in many ways reminiscent of the process of development of Immunity and, in addition, are accompanied by the fixation of allergens in the cells of the reticuloendothelial system, plasmatization of lymphoid cells and the production of antibodies in them (See Antibodies). Cellular sensitivity increases in the body, specific antibodies accumulate, capable of connecting only with the allergen that caused their formation.

By analogy with immunity, S. is distinguished between active and passive. S. and immunity will be able to develop in parallel. Non-specialized patterns of the origin and development of S. have been studied using the example of S.’s active response to serum allergens. In contrast to immunization, S. lead to minimal sensitizing foreign serum or other foreign protein, and low molecular weight chemical substances, as well as drugs. Animals are sensitized in order to study this phenomenon, which is important for the treatment of a number of human diseases associated with S. To obtain active S., not minimal, but much larger doses of the allergen are used, which are not the same for different animals; The dose size depends on the method and route of S. animal. Thus, guinea pigs are injected subcutaneously once or twice with 0.01 ml of horse serum or solutions of another protein allergen; rabbits - 5-6 subcutaneous injections of 1-2 or 3-5 ml of horse serum; dogs - 0.2-0.5 ml/kg once or twice. The subcutaneous method of S. is combined with the intravenous one: the first time the serum is administered subcutaneously, the second - intravenously. In a similar way, it is possible to sensitize cats, African ferrets, wolves, bears, and foxes. Marmosets are sensitized by repeated intravenous injections of small amounts of egg white. Passive S. appears when a healthy animal is injected with the serum of another actively sensitized animal (for a guinea pig, 5-10 ml; for a rabbit, 15-20 ml). S.’s condition may be transferred to another body, for example, through a blood transfusion, and removed or weakened by desensitization (See Desensitization) of the body.

Lit.: Ado A. D. Non-specialized allergology, M. 1970; Tmmunological diseases, 2 ed. v. 1-2, Boston, 1971.

optical, spectral sensitization, expansion of the spectral range of sensitivity of photographic materials. Photographic emulsions made on the basis of silver halides (See Silver halides) are so-called. own sensitivity to light of wavelength? not exceeding 500 nm and without S. are insensitive to rays of the green-yellow, orange-red, and infrared (IR) regions of the spectrum. With S., the photolayer receives the so-called. additional photosensitivity in these parts of the spectrum (Fig.) due to the organic dyes introduced into it (see Sensitizing dyes) that are adsorbed on the surface of silver halide crystals. The phenomenon of S. was discovered in 1873. scientist G.K. Vogel.

Absorbing radiation from? more than 500 nm. the adsorbed layers of the sensitizer dye transfer the purchased excitation energy to the silver halide microcrystals. The detailed mechanism of this process, in which the centers of a latent photographic image appear (See Latent photographic image), has not yet been sufficiently studied. It is unclear how exactly in such a course the conditions are created for the implementation of the primary photochemical act - the abstraction of an electron from a negative halogen ion and the transition of this electron from the valence territory of the silver halide crystal to the conduction band (for the meaning of these concepts, see Art. Rigid body).

Any one sensitizer dye gives the photolayer sensitivity to light radiation only in a relatively narrow part of the spectrum from the wavelength range 500-1200 nm.

Based on this, in most cases a pair of sensitizers are introduced into the photographic emulsion at one point, increasing the temperature. area of additional sensitivity. In the IR range (?>700 nm) the most common dyes are those that sensitize to radiation with? up to 900-1000 nm. Longer wavelength sensitizers are less potent and do not store well (see Infrachromatic Materials). To quantify the action of S., methods of spectral sensitometry are used.

S. is very actively used in the production of most modern black-and-white and all color photographic materials, providing not only an expansion of the range of their spectral sensitivity, but also a general change in photosensitivity (see Desensitization).

Lit.: Meese K. James T. Theory of the photographic process, trans. from English L. 1973; Gorokhovsky Yu. N. Spectral studies of the photographic process, M. 1960; Meiklyar P.V. Physical processes in the formation of a latent photographic image, M. 1972.

Curves of the logarithm of photosensitivity lgS? on the wavelength of light? a non-sensitized photolayer (1) and a photolayer sensitized in the entire range of visible radiation (2).

Huge Soviet encyclopedia. - M. Soviet Encyclopedia. 1969-1978.

Sensitization: causes, manifestations, effects on the human body

International statistics show that the total number of allergy sufferers is steadily growing and by 2020 almost half of the world's population will have sensitivity (sensitization) to one or more allergens. In the Russian Federation, currently more than 30% of citizens suffer from various forms of allergies. The leader in this list is bronchial asthma, it is diagnosed in every 12 residents of Russia, followed in descending order by allergic rhinitis and dermatitis, drug, insect and food allergies. The overwhelming number of Russians consider allergies to be a non-serious disease, so there is a steady trend towards rapid growth and widespread spread of the disease.

In biology, medicine and pharmacology, sensitization is the occurrence and slow or rapid increase in the body’s sensitivity to various external or internal irritant factors. In this vein, the term is used by allergists, immunologists, neurophysiologists, geneticists, gynecologists, narcologists, and pharmacologists.

In the field of allergology, sensitization is an inflammatory response of the immune system to the action of allergens. Upon first contact with an irritant, immune cells “recognize” and “remember” the aggressive agent and produce antibodies specifically for it. The lymphatic and nervous systems are always involved in the process. With repeated or subsequent contacts with the allergen, a full-fledged, more or less pronounced allergic reaction occurs. The period of formation of sensitization can be from several days to several years. Allergens can be not only toxic substances and pathogenic microorganisms, but also plants, animals and food that are completely harmless to most people.

The same property of the body - to remember and neutralize the aggressor with the help of an immune response - is used in the field of immunology, thanks to which humanity has managed to defeat many deadly diseases (black smallpox, cholera, tetanus, polio, diphtheria, measles). In the production of vaccines, dead or repeatedly weakened strains of pathogenic microorganisms or only parts of their cells, for example, proteins, are used.

Gynecologists and geneticists are faced with a specific sensitivity - Rh sensitization. We are talking about pregnant women with a negative Rh factor. If the fetus is Rh positive, its blood proteins will be perceived by the mother's immune system as an allergen, resulting in an Rh conflict.

The term “sensitization” is used by neurophysiologists in studies of the functioning of sensory organs, their targeted training and adaptation to changing environmental conditions and stimuli. When some receptors are turned off in order to compensate, the sensitivity of others increases, therefore, sensitization is also a mechanism of adaptation.

Narcologists use sensitization in the fight against alcoholism. Patients are given an injection or capsules with special medications that cause a sharp negative sensitivity to alcohol (aversion) under the skin. The drugs have a prolonged effect and are absolutely harmless to the body, but if you consume or even inhale alcohol, a violent reaction occurs with very unpleasant sensations (severe nausea). Taking large doses of alcohol can cause coma or death.

The mechanism of occurrence of all allergic reactions is the same, but clinical manifestations can be completely different. Depending on the type of response of the body, they are divided into:

1. Anaphylactic (immediate type). They are characterized by a rapid course due to the release of large amounts of histamine, which has a strong effect on organs and tissues. The reaction time after contact with an allergen is from 2-5 minutes to several hours. Type of development: anaphylactic shock, urticaria, atopic bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, Quincke's edema, acute food intolerance, various allergic reactions in children.
2. Cytoxic. Characterized by the destruction and death of body cells. They occur more slowly, with full manifestation occurring within a few hours. Type of manifestation: hemolytic anemia and hepatitis of newborns caused by Rh conflict, thrombocytopenia, complications after blood transfusion, drug allergies.
3. Immunocomplex. Characterized by damage to the internal walls of the capillaries. They appear within a few hours or days. These include allergic conjunctivitis and dermatitis, serum sickness, rheumatoid arthritis, glomerulonephritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, hemorrhagic vasculitis.
4. Late hypersensitization. Characterized by the release of lymphokines that cause inflammatory reactions. Manifestation - a day or more after contact with the allergen. These are diseases such as contact dermatitis, bronchial asthma, rhinitis.
5. Stimulating hypersensitivity reactions. They are characterized by the process of replacing hormones with antibodies, resulting in stimulation or inhibition of organ activity. Examples of diseases: diffuse toxic goiter, insulin-resistant diabetes, some types of myasthenia gravis, anemia, gastritis.

Allergies can be of two types:

1. Polyvalent. It implies sensitivity to several allergens of the same or different groups at once. As an immune response, a whole complex of substances characteristic of different types of allergies is produced, so the symptoms of manifestation are significantly expanded.
2. Cross allergy is due to the similarity of the chemical structure of some substances, namely a set of amino acids. An allergic reaction to one irritant can also trigger a substance of similar structure. For example, sensitization to cow's milk protein can provoke a similar reaction to beef or the milk of other animals.

What is sensitization, and how is sensitization used in allergology?

Sensitization is a process by which the body develops immunity to pathogens. The principles of this process are used in the development of desensitization programs.

The essence of the sensitization method

The process of sensitization makes the body susceptible to certain substances. This mechanism plays an important role, since thanks to it, when a pathogen, such as chickenpox, enters the body, we develop immunity that allows us to resist subsequent viral attacks. However, sensitization is most often talked about in connection with allergic reactions.

Impaired immune system function can lead to increased sensitivity of the body to harmless substances. The most acute allergic reactions occur with hay fever, asthma and food allergies.

Several methods are used to treat allergies. The most common of them are: complete exclusion of the substance that causes the allergy, and taking antihistamines and steroid drugs. However, both methods have their drawbacks. Desensitization is an alternative allergy treatment that is sometimes more effective.

Desensitization method in allergology

Desensitization is used to reduce or eliminate the body's sensitivity to a specific substance. Unfortunately, it is not effective for everyone. However, it should not be neglected, as it provides significant advantages over traditional therapies. Desensitization treatment relies on a process that is in many ways similar to that of sensitization. It is based on little-studied properties of the immune system that are not yet fully understood.

Sensitization occurs due to repeated contact with varying doses of an allergen (a substance that causes an allergic reaction). It is assumed that the appearance of allergies is somehow related to the variable strength of the allergen and the sporadic nature of contact with the body.

Desensitization programs are effective because they are carefully planned in advance. Regular introduction of an allergen into the body in gradually increasing doses leads to the fact that a person develops resistance to the corresponding substance. However, if a carefully planned program is suddenly interrupted or if too much of a substance is administered early on, a severe allergic reaction similar to the original one may occur.

Treatment of allergic conditions

Before starting treatment, it is necessary to identify the cause of the allergic reaction. Several analysis methods have been developed for this purpose. In the case of asthma or hay fever, the skin test method is used. The doctor makes a scratch on the skin of the patient's hand and then applies a composition containing a specific allergen to the area. During the analysis, about 40 such samples can be carried out. If the test subject has a reaction to any allergen, then signs of inflammation appear in the corresponding place on the skin.

Based on the degree of skin irritation, we can conclude that the patient is sensitive to a specific allergen. Based on the data obtained, the initial dose for desensitization is selected.

If the patient is sensitive to several substances, a desensitization program can be completed for all allergens simultaneously. In this case, a special solution is used, which contains each of the allergens.

It is very important to choose the correct starting dose. A week after the first injection, the patient comes to receive the next one. In case of an allergic reaction or interruption of the course, the program must be started over. The dose of the allergen is gradually increased with each subsequent injection until the patient is desensitized (that is, until the allergic reaction actually disappears).

Doctors do not know exactly what explains the effectiveness of this method, but it is believed that a positive result is achieved by gradually increasing the dose, which allows the body to produce antibodies that can neutralize the allergic substance before it can cause harm.

Sensitization of the body

SENSIBILIZATION in allergology (French sensibilization from Latin sensibilis sensitive) is an immunologically mediated increase in the body’s sensitivity to exogenous or endogenous antigens. The term is widely used in scientific and wedge practice, but the meaning given to it is ambiguous. Sometimes S. is defined very broadly - as an increased reaction of the body to substances of an antigenic or hapten nature. In this case, the concept of “sensitization” merges with the concept of “allergy”. But allergy (see) consists not only of increased sensitivity to some antigen (see Antigens), but also of the implementation of this increased sensitivity in the form of an allergic reaction, and increased sensitivity to the antigen occurs first and only then if the antigen remains in body or enters it again, an allergic reaction itself develops. This entire process in its development goes through three stages - immunological, natochemical and pathophysiological. It can be divided in time into two periods: the first - preparation (increasing the body's sensitivity to the antigen, or sensitization) and the second - the implementation or the possibility of this condition occurring in the form of an allergic reaction. This idea of allergy corresponds to the data of the wedge, observations. Very often, a person sensitized to any antigen is practically healthy until the corresponding allergen enters the body, for example, plant pollen for hay fever (see), a drug for S. to this drug (see Drug allergy) and etc. Experimental studies also confirm this point of view. For example, to reproduce anaphylactic shock in guinea pigs (see Anaphylaxis), the animals are first injected with the so-called. sensitizing dose of antigen and only after 2-3 weeks. cause shock by introducing a resolving dose of the same antigen. Therefore, it would be more correct to limit the concept of “sensitization” only to those processes that occur in the body from the moment the antigen is introduced and end with the formation of antibodies and (or) sensitized lymphocytes to this antigen. This emphasizes that the increase in sensitivity is specific to the antigen that causes it.

Based on the method of production, a distinction is made between active S. and passive (passive transfer). Active S. develops with the artificial introduction or natural entry of an allergen (see) into the body. Passive S. is observed after the administration of blood serum or lymphoid cells from an actively sensitized donor to an intact recipient. If S. occurs in the fetus, then such S. is called intrauterine. S. can be monovalent - with increased sensitivity to one allergen and polyvalent - with S. to many allergens. Cross S. is called an increase in the sensitivity of a sensitized organism to other antigens that have common determinants with the allergen that caused S.

Depending on the chem. the nature, physical condition and amount of the allergen entering the body, as well as the reactivity of the body, various immune mechanisms will be included in its reaction to the allergen. This difference is expressed in the characteristics of the resulting antibodies (see) - their predominant belonging to one or another class or subclass of immunoglobulins (see) and their titers, as well as in the formation of sensitized lymphocytes (see). So, for example, weak antigens (plant pollen, house dust, dander and animal hair) cause the predominant formation of reagins (see Allergic antibodies). The body most often reacts to corpuscular insoluble allergens (tissue cells, bacteria, fungal spores, etc.) with the formation of antibodies, leading to the activation of cytotoxic mechanisms and (or) the appearance of sensitized lymphocytes. Soluble allergens (antitoxic serums, gamma globulins, bacterial lysis products, etc.), especially in large quantities, cause the appearance of antibodies involved in the formation of immune complexes and precipitation effects.

The influence of the body's reactivity (see) on the function of the immune system is realized in several ways. First, the immune response to each antigen is determined genetically. The class, subclass, allotype and idiotype of the antibodies formed depend on the characteristics of the functioning of the structural genes that control the synthesis of immunoglobulins (see). Ig genes - immune response genes - determine the intensity of the immune response by the number of antibodies formed and (or) the severity of a delayed-type allergic reaction mediated by sensitized lymphocytes. So, most, there are individuals who respond with excessive formation of IgE antibodies to certain weak antigens (pollen, dandruff, etc.). The specific mechanism of excessive formation of IgE antibodies is associated, in particular, with insufficient activity of the corresponding suppressor T cells. Secondly, the immune response is influenced by the state of the barrier functions of the skin and mucous membranes, which determines the possibility of many exogenous allergens entering the body. Nair., deficiency of secretory IgA promotes penetration of the allergen through the mucous membranes, which leads to the formation of reagins. Thirdly, the state of regulatory systems, influencing intercellular interactions during the immune response, cell circulation, etc., has a modulating effect on the nature of the immune response. It is these factors that determine the formation of sensitized lymphocytes, the type of antibodies, their titer, and thus the characteristics of the allergic reaction.

All this taken together gave the basis for identifying the following four types of S., of which the first three are associated with the characteristics of the antibodies formed, and the fourth with the formation of sensitized lymphocytes.

S. in the reagin type of allergy (syn.: atopic type, IgE-mediated type, anaphylactic type of allergy, with immediate hypersensitivity) is determined by the formation of antibodies called reagins. They relate to chap. arr. to IgE and to a lesser extent to IgG4. Therefore, the term “sensitization” of the IgE-mediated type, although widely used, is not very precise. The resulting reagins are fixed mainly on mast cells (see) and basophils and thereby create a state of sensitization. S. reagin type plays a leading role in the development of a group of atopic diseases (see Atopy), for example, the atopic form of bronchial asthma, hay fever, etc.

S. in the cytotoxic type of allergy has become the subject of attention of researchers since 1898, when for the first time hemolysins were obtained experimentally by introducing erythrocytes of an animal of one species into the body of an animal of another species. Domestic scientists made a significant contribution to the development of the doctrine of cytotoxins (see). In 1901, I. I. Mechnikov created the doctrine of cell nuclei (cytotoxins), E. S. London formulated the characteristics that distinguish cytotoxins from chemical ones. substances that have a toxic effect on cells; A. A. Bogomolets in 1908 received suprarenocytotoxic serum, and in 1925, under his leadership, antireticular cytotoxic serum was obtained (see), which found application in treatment. practice. In all these studies, cytotoxic antibodies were obtained against antigens of homologous or heterologous cells. In humans, the cytotoxic type allergy mechanism can be activated when isoantigens enter the body, for example, during a blood transfusion, or with hemolytic disease of the newborn. In the latter case, a mother negative for the Rh antigen (see Rh factor), during childbirth or, less often, during pregnancy if the placenta is damaged, is sensitized by the erythrocytes of the Rh-positive fetus, which leads to the formation of anti-Rh antibodies in her, which include the following: . arr. to IgG and freely pass through the placenta. It was also found that cytotoxic antibodies can also be formed against the cells of one’s own tissues in cases where the cells acquire autoallergenic properties. The reasons why cells acquire autoallergenic properties are very diverse. An important role in this process is played by the effect on the cells of various CPMs. substances, most often drugs, that enter the body and are capable of changing the antigenic structure of cell membranes due to conformational changes in antigen molecules, damage to the cell membrane and the appearance of hidden (repressed) antigenic determinants, the formation of allergen complexes with the cell membrane, in which drug or other chem. the substance plays the role of a hapten. A similar effect on the cell can be exerted by lysosomal enzymes of neutrophils, released during phagocytosis, as well as bacterial enzymes and viruses. In all these cases, antibodies belong to Ch. arr. to IgG or IgM. The mechanisms of cytotoxic action are different. In some cases it is associated with the activation of complement (see) the so-called. complement-mediated cytotoxicity. In other cases, the so-called antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity. In this case, antibodies are fixed on target cells. Through the Fc end of their molecule, they bind to the Fc receptors of various cells (K cells, monocytes, neutrophils). These cells carry out the cytotoxic effect. The activation of one or another mechanism of a cytotoxic type of allergy depends on the nature and properties of the formed antibodies, since the ability to attach complement and connect to Fc receptors of various cells is associated with them. So, for example, IgM, IgG1, IgG3 fix complement well, in IgG2 this ability is less pronounced, and IgG4 and IgE do not fix it at all. S. in the cytotoxic type of allergy plays a significant role in certain cases of drug allergies, in the development of a number of autoallergic (autoimmune) processes (see Autoallergic diseases).

S. in Arthus-type allergies (damage by the immune complex) is caused by the introduction of large quantities of soluble allergen into the body. It causes the formation of antibodies, which can belong to different classes of immunoglobulins, but most often they belong to the immunoglobulins of the IgG and IgM classes. These antibodies are also called precipitating antibodies for their ability to form a precipitate in vitro when combined with the corresponding antigen. In the human body, immune reactions constantly occur with the formation of an antigen-antibody complex (see Antigen-antibody reaction), since any antigens constantly enter the body from the outside or are formed in the body itself. These reactions are an expression of the protective, or homeostatic, function of the immune system (see) and are not accompanied by cytotoxic or lytic effects. However, under certain conditions, the antigen-antibody complex can have a damaging effect and contribute to the development of the disease. In such cases, they say that C has occurred. The antigen-antibody complex can exhibit a damaging effect under the following conditions: the complex must have a certain value, according to experimental data, more than 19S, which corresponds to the mol. weight (mass) 9 10 5 - 1 10 6; it must be formed with a certain excess of antigen; the permeability of the vascular wall should be increased, because in this case the antigen-antibody complex can be deposited in the tissues. Typically, an increase in the permeability of the vascular wall is caused by vasoactive amines released from platelets, and for this, S. in Arthus-type allergies must be joined by S. of the reagin type. S. in Arthus-type allergies underlies serum sickness (see), exogenous allergic alveolitis (see), etc.

S. in delayed-type allergies (syn. delayed-type hypersensitivity) develops in cases where, in response to an allergen entering the body, the so-called. sensitized lymphocytes (T-effectors, or T-killers). They belong to the T-population of lymphocytes (see Immunocompetent cells), and their formation leads to the development of delayed-type S. By combining with the allergen, these lymphocytes cause a delayed allergic reaction. S.'s mechanism of this type underlies the development of many infectious-allergic diseases (see Infectious allergy), contact dermatitis (see), etc.

S.'s development is accompanied by a change in the reactivity of a number of systems and organs of the body and the activity of certain enzyme systems for a certain period of time, which is expressed in a change in sensitivity to the action of various nonspecific factors. Thus, A.D. Ado established an increase in the excitability of baro- and chemoreceptors of the carotid sinus in sensitized dogs, and I.A. Khodakova discovered in such animals a change from the cortisol type of steroidogenesis to the corticosterone type; in the laboratory of N. D. Beklemishev it was established that the development of S. to bacterial antigens in experimental animals is accompanied by pronounced changes in redox processes. A change in the sensitivity of patients with brucellosis and rheumatism to the action of physical factors was revealed. This change in the body’s sensitivity to the action of a variety of environmental factors is sometimes called nonspecific S., in contrast to specific S., associated with the activation of immune mechanisms in response to a given allergen.

To identify S., various methods are used, which are used in vivo and in vitro. In vivo methods include skin tests (see). S. in the reagin type of allergy is detected by all types of skin tests. It is characterized by the development of a urticarial reaction (blister, sometimes with pseudopodia, surrounded by a zone of hyperemia) in the first 15-20 minutes. after introducing the allergen into the skin. S. in Arthus-type allergies is detected by intradermal injection of the allergen; the reaction develops after 4-6 hours, the site of allergen injection looks like a focus of inflammation. S. with a delayed type of allergy is detected by intradermal and application tests; the reaction develops within 24-48 hours. S. in the reagin type of allergy is detected using the Prausnitz-Kustner reaction (see Prausnitz-Kustner reaction). Various provocative tests (see) can successfully identify S. in the reagin type of allergy and S. in the Arthus type of allergy; somewhat more difficult thus. identify a delayed type of sensitization. N.D. Beklemishev believes that fever that appears after intravenous administration of a bacterial allergen indicates S., character-. Noy for delayed-type allergies, because the allergen, combining with sensitized lymphocytes, causes the release of certain lymphokines, which stimulate the formation of endogenous pyrogens.

Numerous labs are widely used. methods for detecting C. in vitro. Some of them make it possible to identify S., regardless of its type, for example, the reaction of blastotransformation of lymphocytes (see), the PPN test (see Leukocyte tests). With the help of other labs. methods, predominantly a certain type of S. is detected. So, for example, S. in the reagin type of allergy is diagnosed using the radioallergosorbent method (see) and the Schultz-Dale reaction (see Schultz-Dale reaction), etc.; S. for the cytotoxic type of allergy - using the Coombs reaction (see Coombs reaction) and the Steffen reaction (see Steffen reaction); S. for Arthus-type allergies - various methods for determining immune complexes and precipitates in lean antibodies; S. in delayed type allergies is determined by the method of inhibition of migration of macrophages (see) or inhibition of leukocyte migration, by the formation of lymphotoxins and other lymphokines. The diagnostic value of these methods is not equivalent. Their application is determined by the objectives of the research and the nature of the process.

Prevention of sensitization

The general principles of S. prevention boil down to reducing the intake of various allergens into the body and eliminating conditions conducive to S. This requires constant improvement of vaccination regimens and improving the quality of the drugs used, rational limitation of the use of heterologous antitoxic serums, especially antitetanus, and their replacement where necessary. perhaps, on homologous gamma globulins, limiting the uncontrolled use of medications, carrying out sanitation of foci hron. infections, compliance with household hygiene rules that limit the entry of dust and other allergens into the body, improvement of technological processes in order to limit the effect of industrial allergens on the body. Particular attention should be paid to identifying children with secretory IgA deficiency and other immunodeficiency conditions that contribute to the development of S. (see Immunological deficiency), and corrective therapy.

Bibliography: Ado A. D. Antigens as extreme irritants of the nervous system, M., 1952, bibliogr.; aka, General Allergology, M., 1978; Beklemishev N. D. Infectious allergy, Alma-Ata, 1968; B e k l e m i-sh e v N. D. and S u h o d o e v a G. S. Allergy to microbes in the clinic and experiment, M., 1979, bibliogr.; Gushchin I.S. On the elements of the biological expediency of allergic reactivity, Pat. physiol. and experiment. ter., v. 4, p. 3, 1979, bibliogr.; P y c k and y V. I. Corticosteroids and allergic processes, M., 1976; Coombs R.R.A.a. Gell R. G. N. Classification of allergic reactions responsible for clinical hypersensitivity and disease, in the book: Clin, aspects immunol., ed. by P. G. H. Gellj a. o., p. 761, Oxford a. o., 1975.