THE CONTEXT
Antigen elimination involves immune complex formation, while the duration of antigen persistence is related to metabolism.
Immune elimination and tissue injury
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Immune elimination consists of rapid antigen elimination with formation of antigen–antibody complexes.
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These complexes may damage tissues and cause immune complex diseases such as serum sickness.
Metabolism and persistence
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The rate of antigen elimination is related to the rate at which the antigen is metabolised.
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Protein antigens are generally eliminated within days or weeks.
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Polysaccharides are metabolised slowly and may persist for months or years.