Arthus reaction facts for kids

The Arthus reaction is a special type of allergic reaction. It happens when your body's antibodies react to something like a chemical or protein. These antibodies can get stuck in the walls of blood vessels. This can happen in organs like the heart, in joints, or in the kidneys.

History

The Arthus reaction was found by a scientist named Nicolas Maurice Arthus. He discovered it in 1903. Arthus did experiments by injecting parts of horse blood under the skin of rabbits.

After four injections, he noticed that the rabbits had swelling. He also saw that the injected mixture was absorbed very slowly. More injections later caused serious tissue damage, sometimes leading to cells dying.

Arthus reactions have been reported, but not often, after some vaccinations. These include vaccines for diphtheria and tetanus. They are rare and can cause pain, swelling, or bleeding. Sometimes, they can cause severe tissue damage. This usually happens within 4 to 12 hours after the vaccine is given.

See also

• Serum sickness