A substance that triggers an allergic reaction.An allergy affecting the mucus membrane of the nose. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is often called "hay fever."A doctor that diagnoses, treats, and manages allergy-related conditions.A life-threatening allergic reaction that involves the entire body. Anaphylaxis may result in shock or death, and thus requires immediate medical attention A protein in the immune system that recognizes and attacks foreign substances in the body.An inflammatory disorder of the airways, causing periodic attacks of wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.A chronic skin rash, also known as "eczema," that often appears in the first few years of life.An immune system cell that attaches to antibodies and circulates throughout the blood. The lower sections of the airway that lead into the lungs.Inflammation of the conjunctiva, or the mucous membrane surrounding the eye. Also known as pinkeye.An allergic reaction resulting from skin contact to an allergen.A class of medications used for nasal congestion. Decongestants are available in oral doses, nasal sprays, or eye drops (for conjunctivitis).A microscopic organism that lives in dust.See Atopic dermatitis.A specific type of immune cell that can cause tissue damage in the late phase of an allergic reaction.A chemical released by basophils and mast cells that causes nearby tissues to become swollen and inflamed.See urticaria.A series of shots that help build up the immune system's tolerance to an allergen.A test where an allergen is injected just inside the skin. Intradermal tests are generally used when results from a skin prick test are unclear. A specific type of immune cell that can cause tissue damage in the late phase of an allergic reaction.An immune system cell which attaches to antibodies and is located in the tissue that lines the nose, bronchial tubes, gastrointestinal tract, and the skinA middle ear infection. Otitis media with effusion occurs when fluid builds up within the ear.A blood test that measures the amount of IgE antibody to a specific allergen. An inflammation of the nasal passageways, particularly with discharge.An inflammation or infection of one or more sinuses. The sinuses are hollow air spaces located around the nose and eyes.A test where a needle is used to scratch the skin with a small amount of allergen. A response can usually be seen within 15 - 20 minutes. An oil found on poison ivy, oak, and sumac.

Review Date: 6/18/2009

Reviewed By: Frederic F. Little, MD, Department of Allergy and Pulmonary/Critical Care Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.