Imagine that one of your patients is an emergency medical technician who has a family history of autoimmune disorders and allergy, but she does not currently suffer from either. Which of the following is (are) most likely true of your patient? Select all that apply.
a. She is at an increased risk for cancer
b. She is at an increased risk for type I hypersensitivities
c. She is at an increased risk for type III hypersensitivities
d. She is at an increased risk for latex hypersensitivity
e. She is at an increased risk for immunosuppression

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the patient's background — she has a family history of autoimmune disorders and allergies but currently shows no symptoms. This suggests a genetic predisposition to immune system irregularities.
2. Step 2: Recall that autoimmune disorders involve the immune system attacking the body's own tissues, often linked to hypersensitivity types II and III. Allergies are typically related to type I hypersensitivity reactions.
3. Step 3: Analyze each option in the context of her family history and occupational exposure: (a) Increased cancer risk is not directly linked to family history of autoimmunity/allergy; (b) Type I hypersensitivities are immediate allergic reactions, so a family history of allergy increases this risk; (c) Type III hypersensitivities involve immune complex deposition, often seen in autoimmune diseases, so risk may be increased; (d) Latex hypersensitivity is a type I hypersensitivity common in healthcare workers, so occupational exposure increases this risk; (e) Immunosuppression is not typically associated with family history of autoimmunity/allergy.
4. Step 4: Conclude that options related to hypersensitivity (type I and III) and latex allergy are most likely true due to genetic predisposition and occupational exposure, while cancer risk and immunosuppression are less directly connected.
5. Step 5: Summarize that the patient is at increased risk for type I hypersensitivities, type III hypersensitivities, and latex hypersensitivity based on family history and job role.

Key Concepts

Autoimmune Disorders and Genetic Predisposition

Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. A family history indicates a genetic predisposition, increasing the likelihood of developing autoimmune conditions or related immune dysregulations, even if symptoms are not currently present.

Hypersensitivity Types and Immune Responses

Hypersensitivities are exaggerated immune responses classified into four types. Type I involves immediate allergic reactions (e.g., allergies, anaphylaxis), while Type III involves immune complex-mediated reactions. A family history of allergy or autoimmune disease can increase susceptibility to certain hypersensitivities.

Risk Factors for Immunosuppression and Cancer

Immunosuppression reduces the immune system's ability to fight infections and cancer. While autoimmune disorders involve immune overactivity, they do not inherently increase immunosuppression or cancer risk. Understanding these distinctions helps assess patient risk accurately.