These immune complexes can either originate from the administration of heterologous antisera or the administration of drugs known to cause serum sickness. Antihistamines - Symptomatic treatment with antihistamines for pruritus. Antihistamines may prevent the deposition of immune complexes. Prophylactic antihistamines may decrease the incidence of serum sickness by negating the action of vasoactive amines and preventing the increased vascular permeability they induce. Acts also on the heat-regulating center of the hypothalamus to reduce fever.
Corticosteroids cause profound and varied metabolic effects.
In addition, these agents modify the body's immune response to diverse stimuli. Admit if severe or if the diagnosis is unclear. However, there are circumstances where avoidance is not possible. Skin tests are indicated before antiserum administration, particularly with a history of allergy to horse dander or if the patient has received the material previously. Skin tests detect the presence of IgE antibodies and, thus, predict the individuals at risk of anaphylaxis, but will not reliably predict increased risk of serum sickness.