🏥 USMLE Exam Prep

A patient develops a rash and joint pain several days after receiving an antivenom serum. Histology shows vasculitis with immune complex deposition. This reaction is characteristic of which type of hypersensitivity?

A Type I (Immediate)
B Type II (Cytotoxic)
C Type III (Immune Complex)
D Type IV (Delayed)

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

This describes serum sickness, a classic example of a Type III hypersensitivity reaction. It involves the formation of circulating immune complexes that deposit in tissues, leading to inflammation, vasculitis, rash, and joint pain.

💡 Why is C) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "A patient develops a rash and joint pain several days after receiving an antivenom serum. Histology shows vasculitis with immune complex deposition. This reaction is characteristic of which type of hypersensitivity?" is Option C: Type III (Immune Complex).

The other options — A) Type I (Immediate), B) Type II (Cytotoxic), D) Type IV (Delayed) — are incorrect for this USMLE Exam Prep question. As explained above: This describes serum sickness, a classic example of a Type III hypersensitivity reaction. It involves the formation of circulating immune complexes that deposit in tissues, leading to inflammation, v…

📚 About This USMLE Exam Prep Practice Question

This 3-level USMLE Exam Prep question from the Step 1 – Basic Sciences topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free USMLE Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

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