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ALLERGY RESOURCE CENTER
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Anaphylaxis is an acute systemic reaction caused by the release of mediators from mast cells and basophils. The phrase anaphylactic reaction usually refers to a type I hypersensitivity reaction with mast cell degranulation mediated by antigen binding of specific IgE. The term anaphylactoid reaction refers instead to a non-IgE-mediated mechanism of mast cell activation. The term anaphylaxis refers to the physiologic events due to either mechanism.
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The term contact dermatitis sometimes is used incorrectly as a synonym for allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). Contact dermatitis is inflammation of the skin induced by chemicals that directly damage the skin and by specific sensitivity in the case of ACD. ACD is inflammation of the skin manifested by varying degrees of erythema, edema, and vesiculation. |
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Adverse food reactions can be classified into 2 categories. The first is hypersensitivity that is an immunologically mediated adverse food reaction and is unrelated to any physiologic effect of the food or food additive. The second category is food intolerance. |
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Latex is ubiquitous in modern society and particularly in health care. Since 1988, the incidence of minor and serious allergic reactions to latex has risen rapidly among patients and health care workers. Latex sensitization can occur after skin or mucosal contact, peritoneal contact during surgery, and possibly inhalation of aerosolized particles with latex on their surfaces. |
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Rhinitis is defined as inflammation of the nasal membranes and is characterized by a symptom complex that consists of any combination of the following: sneezing, nasal congestion, nasal itching, and rhinorrhea. The eyes, ears, sinuses, and throat can also be involved. Allergic rhinitis is the most common cause of rhinitis. |
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