Anatomy and Physiology II Practice Test

Anaphylactic shock is an example of which kind of immune response?

1. Innate immune response

2. Adaptive immune response

3. Autoimmune response

4. Nonspecific immune response

The correct answer is: Innate immune response

Anaphylactic shock represents a type of immune response that is characterized primarily by the body's exaggerated reaction to an allergen, which typically involves the release of large amounts of histamines and other mediators from mast cells and basophils. This reaction is part of the innate immune response, which is the body's first line of defense against harmful substances and pathogens. In anaphylaxis, the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance, such as a food allergen or insect venom, as a threat, prompting a rapid and intense response. This results in symptoms such as swelling, difficulty breathing, and a drop in blood pressure. The innate immune response operates without prior exposure to the allergen, acting immediately and often in a nonspecific manner. This swift reaction distinguishes it from the adaptive immune response, which requires prior exposure and is specific to particular pathogens or substances. Thus, anaphylactic shock is best categorized as an innate immune response due to its rapid, nonspecific nature in reaction to an allergen.