Poison Ivy Reactions are an Example of A(n)_____ Condition

Question

Poison ivy reactions are an example of a(n)_____ condition.
A) autoimmune
B) isoimmune
C) allergic
D) phagocytic

Accepted Answer

Poison ivy reactions are a classic example of an allergic reaction. The immune system recognizes certain chemicals in the plant as foreign, and initiates an immune response that leads to the characteristic rash, itching, and swelling. This process does not involve autoimmunity or isoimmunity, which are other types of immune responses. Phagocytosis, which is the process of engulfing and digesting foreign particles by certain cells, may occur as part of the immune response to poison ivy, but it is not the primary mechanism of the reaction.