allotype
Pronunciation: AL-oh-typ
Genetic variants of immunoglobulin or other immune proteins that differ between individuals, relevant in pediatric transplantation and immunoglobulin therapy.
Full Definition
Inherited variations in the amino acid sequence of immunoglobulins or other immune system proteins that can be recognized as foreign antigens in genetically different individuals. In pediatric immunology, allotypes are important considerations in organ transplantation, where allotypic differences can contribute to rejection, and in immunoglobulin replacement therapy, where repeated exposure to foreign allotypes may lead to anti-allotype antibody formation and reduced therapeutic efficacy.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish clearly from 'isotype' (class differences) and 'idiotype' (individual antibody variants).
In Context
- "The patient developed anti-allotype antibodies following repeated IVIG treatments." — immunology consultation
- "HLA allotype matching was performed prior to the pediatric stem cell transplant." — transplant protocol