User:Doc James/CTX2

Serum sickness is a type of allergic reaction to non-human proteins. Symptoms commonly include fever, rash, and joint pain. It generally occurs 7 to 14 days after exposure and symptoms can last for a few weeks. Complications are rare, though repeated episodes of serum sickness may potentially result in kidney failure.

It most commonly occurs as a result of certain vaccines (such as rabies), antivenom, and immunomodulators (such as rituximab and thymoglobulin). The underlying mechanism involves hypersensitivity, specifically immune complex hypersensitivity (type III). Diagnosis may be supported by urine tests, blood tests, and a skin biopsy.

Treatment often simple involves stopping whatever is causing the condition. Antihistamines and NSAIDs may be used to improve symptoms. For more severe symptoms steroids may be used. If this is not effective plasma exchange may be an option. Outcomes are generally excellent.

Serum sickness is rare. It; however, may occur in up to 27% of people treated with thymoglobulin post kidney transplant. It was first described in detail by Clemens von Pirquet and Béla Schick in 1905.