Which type of hypersensitivity reaction is eczema classified as?

Eczema is classified as a Type I hypersensitivity reaction due to its association with allergic responses. In this type of hypersensitivity, the immune system overreacts to a harmless substance, leading to an immediate allergic reaction. This often involves the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which bind to allergens and trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals from mast cells.

In the case of eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, the condition can be triggered by a variety of allergens such as certain foods, environmental factors, and irritants. The symptoms include inflammation and itching, which are characteristic of allergic reactions.

Other types of hypersensitivity reactions differ in their mechanisms: Type II involves antibody-mediated cell destruction, Type III pertains to immune complex-mediated diseases, and Type IV is primarily a delayed-type hypersensitivity response, typically involving T-cell mediated reactions. These distinctions are important in understanding the underlying immunological processes of various conditions, including eczema.