Hypersensitivity reaction gastrointestinal tract

Topical formulations of nystatin and of amphotericin B are useful in the management of Candida albicans infections of the skin. Both antibiotics are ineffective against dermatophytes. The use of nystatin is limited to topical treatment of cutaneous and mucosal Candida infections because of its narrow spectrum and its negligible absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. Hypersensitivity reactions are rare. It is not known whether topical nystatin can cause fetal harm when used by a pregnant woman. Amphotericin B has broader antifungal activity but its topical use is restricted to Candida. Topical use of amphotericin B has shown minimal absorption through the skin and is well tolerated. Limited human surveillance data do not indicate any harm to mother or fetus, but relative safety is still unknown. 

As with all drugs, the specific side effects of the quinolones must be considered when they are chosen for treatment of bacterial infections [5]. Reactions of the gastrointestinal tract and the central neivous system are the most often observed adverse effects during therapy with quinolones. It should be underlined, however, that compared with many other antimicrobials, diarrhea is less frequently observed during quinolone treatment. Antibiotic-associated colitis has been observed rarely during quinolone therapy. Similarly, hypersensitivity reactions, as observed during therapy with penicillins and other (3-lactams, is less frequently caused by quinolones. Some other risks of quinolone therapy have been defined and must be considered if a drug from this class is chosen for treatment of bacterial infections. 

The most common adverse reactions seen with this drug are related to the gastrointestinal tract and may include nausea, anorexia, and occasionally vomiting and diarrhea The most serious adverse reactions are associated widi die CNS and include seizures and numbness of die extremities. Hypersensitivity reactions also may be seen. Thrombophlebitis may occur widi intravenous (IV) use of die drug. 

These are called delayed hypersensitivity reactions since they normally occur 6-24 hours after exposure. A cell-mediated allergy involves the interaction of food allergens with sensitised lymphocytes, which usually occurs in the gastrointestinal tract. The sensitised lymphocytes produce lymphokines and the generation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes. These latter cells destroy other intestinal cells, including the epithelial cells that are critical for absorption. 

Echinacea is derived from the root and seeds of the Echinacea plant that grows in parts of the Midwestern United States. This herb is used primarily to stimulate or support the immune system, and is often used to treat cold symptoms and other relatively minor respiratory tract infections.8 38 Although the exact reasons for beneficial effects are unclear, there is considerable evidence that echinacea preparations can reduce symptoms of the common cold when taken soon after symptoms appear.5,71 The ability of echinacea to prevent colds and other infections, however, is less well defined.49 Echinacea can also be administered topically to treat burns and other localized wounds. The most common side effects associated with echinacea are gastrointestinal (GI) upset, skin rash, and other allergic or hypersensitivity reactions.36... 

W.L. Janower, Hypersensitivity reactions after barium studies of the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract. Radiology 161 139-140, 1986. 

Cephalothin i.s absorbed poorly from the gastrointestinal tract and must be administered parcntcrally for. systemic infections. It is relatively nontoxic and acid stable. It is excreted rapidly through tlie kidneys about 60% i.s lo.si within 6 hours of administration. Pain at the. site of intramuscular injection and thrombophlebitis following intravenous injection have been reported. Hypersensitivity reactions have been observed, and there is some evidence of cross-.scn.siti v-ity in patients noted previously to be penicillin sensitive. 

The immune system is characterized by a unique distribution, and many of its components are located close to the principal sites of absorption, including the gastrointestinal tract, the pulmonary tract, and the skin. Therefore, the immune system is in a position to be exposed to potentially high concentrations of drugs and chemicals. This phenomenon is especially important in hypersensitivity responses where the primary portal of entry of the hapten can determine the specific site of the reaction. 

Generation of a type I reaction can be evident as an immediate hypersensitivity reaction, or anaphylaxis. Immediate reactions may be limited to single organs, typically in the nasal mucosa (rhinitis), respiratory tract (acute asthma), skin, or gastrointestinal tract, or can involve multiple organs simultaneously, termed analphylaxis. 

Histamine is an autacoid present at high levels in the lungs, skin, and the gastrointestinal tract and is released from mast cells and basophils by type I hypersensitivity reactions, drugs, venoms, and trauma. 

Until relatively recently, chemotherapy has not discriminated effectively between rapidly dividing tumor cells and normal cells, in particular cells in the bone marrow and gastrointestinal tract. This has led to toxic effects for patients including an array of severe nonimmune adverse reactions as weU as hypersensitivities ranging from mild skin manifestations to life-threatening cutaneous and systemic reactions. Effective targeted therapies with high specificity toward tumor cells but broad therapeutic application and absence of toxicity have always been... 

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