Which of the following would you expect to see increased in circulation in a patient suffering from allergies? Select all that apply.
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b.


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Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of allergies in the immune system. Allergic reactions typically involve an immune response where certain cells and molecules increase in number or activity to combat what the body mistakenly perceives as harmful.
2. Step 2: Identify the key immune components involved in allergic reactions. These usually include mast cells, basophils, and eosinophils, as well as immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which play a central role in mediating allergic responses.
3. Step 3: Recall that during an allergic reaction, histamine and other inflammatory mediators are released from mast cells and basophils, leading to symptoms such as swelling, redness, and itching. Eosinophils also increase to help modulate the allergic inflammation.
4. Step 4: Analyze the options (images) provided, focusing on which immune cells or molecules are shown. Look for representations of basophils, eosinophils, mast cells, or IgE antibodies, as these are typically elevated in allergic conditions.
5. Step 5: Select all options that correspond to these allergy-associated immune components, as these would be expected to increase in circulation during an allergic reaction.

Key Concepts

Allergic Reaction and Immune Response

Allergic reactions occur when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances called allergens. This triggers the release of chemicals like histamine and activates specific immune cells, leading to symptoms such as inflammation, swelling, and increased mucus production.

Role of Eosinophils in Allergies

Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that increase in number during allergic reactions and parasitic infections. They help mediate inflammation by releasing toxic proteins and signaling molecules, making their elevated presence a key indicator of allergic responses.

Types of White Blood Cells and Their Functions

Different white blood cells have distinct roles: neutrophils fight bacterial infections, lymphocytes manage adaptive immunity, basophils release histamine during allergies, and eosinophils combat parasites and modulate allergic inflammation. Understanding their functions helps identify which cells increase during allergies.