CEA Nursing Practice Exam

What is the most common diagnosis for a 17-year-old female experiencing swelling and difficulty breathing after a bee sting?

1. Type 2 hypersensitivity reaction

2. Angioedema

3. Tachyphylaxis

4. IgE mediated type 1 hypersensitivity reaction

The correct answer is: IgE mediated type 1 hypersensitivity reaction

The scenario described involves a 17-year-old female experiencing swelling and difficulty breathing after a bee sting, which suggests an allergic reaction. The most appropriate diagnosis in this context is an IgE mediated type 1 hypersensitivity reaction. In this type of hypersensitivity, exposure to an allergen, such as bee venom, stimulates the immune system to produce Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. Upon subsequent exposure to the same allergen, these IgE antibodies trigger mast cells and basophils to release histamine and other inflammatory mediators. This can lead to symptoms such as angioedema (swelling), bronchospasm (difficulty breathing), urticaria (hives), and anaphylactic shock in severe cases. The timing and nature of the symptoms following the bee sting further support the diagnosis of a type 1 hypersensitivity reaction. The other diagnoses listed do not align as closely with the described symptoms and exposure history. For instance, type 2 hypersensitivity primarily involves cytotoxic reactions mediated by IgG or IgM antibodies and is not typically associated with allergic responses to insect stings. Angioedema could indeed be a symptom resulting from the reaction but is not the underlying mechanism of the severe allergic response. Tachyph