Immunology Category

1. An Introduction to Hypersensitivity

• Define hypersensitivity as an excessive, antigen-specific immune response causing host harm.
• Differentiate between intrinsic (autoimmune) and extrinsic (allergens, drugs, infections) hypersensitivity triggers.
• Understand the sensitisation and subsequent effector phases of hypersensitivity development.
• Identify and recall the four main hypersensitivity types (I–IV) using the ABCD mnemonic.
• Classify Type I (immediate allergy), Type II (antibody-mediated), Type III (immune-complex), and Type IV (T-cell mediated).

2. Type 1 Hypersensitivity

• Understand the physiology of type 1 hypersensitivity reactions and how this links to the clinical presentation of allergy.
• Understand the hygiene hypothesis and its role in the development of allergy.
• Be aware of the symptoms and management of allergic reactions.

3. Food Allergy

• Understand the causes of food allergy and the pathophysiology of differing presentations of food allergy.
• Be aware of the difference between IgE-mediated and non-IgE-mediated allergic reactions.
• Understand how a food allergy can be diagnosed.
• Be aware of the management of food allergy and concepts such as the food ladder.
• Be aware of anaphylaxis and its management.

4. An Introduction to Autoimmunity

• Understand the role of autoimmunity in acute and chronic disease.
• Be aware of a number of common autoimmune conditions and their common presentations.
• Understand potential causes for autoimmune conditions and how they are diagnosed.
• Be aware of the principles used to treat autoimmune conditions.

5. Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Describe RA as a systemic autoimmune disease involving rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies.
• Explain synovitis mechanism: immune complex formation, cytokines (IL‑1, TNF‑α, IL‑6), pannus development.
• Recognise clinical features: symmetrical joint swelling, early morning stiffness, extra‑articular manifestations.
• Outline diagnostic tools: blood markers (RF, ACPA), imaging (X-ray, ultrasound), 2010 ACR/EULAR criteria.
• Summarise treatment strategies: DMARDs, biologics, NSAIDs, steroids, physiotherapy.
• Understand systemic effects: anaemia of chronic disease and cardiovascular risk.

• Be able to describe the autoimmune basis and multisystem nature of SLE
• Be able to recognise common clinical features and interpret key investigations
• Be able to outline management principles, monitoring and major complications

• Be able to classify immunological therapies and explain key mechanisms (e.g., monoclonal antibodies)
• Be able to identify common clinical uses and therapeutic examples
• Be able to recognise important adverse effects and monitoring requirements