Inhaled or ingested allergens usually cause immediate hypersensitivity reactions.
The medical term for a substance that produces hypersensitivity is an allergen. Allergens can trigger allergic reactions in individuals who are sensitive to them, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and hives.
An atopy is a hereditary disorder marked by the tendency to develop localized immediate hypersensitivity reactions to allergens.
Delayed hypersensitivity reactions-- Allergic reactions mediated by T cells that occur hours to days after exposure
Dermal hypersensitivity reaction is an exaggerated immune response in the skin to certain substances or allergens. This reaction can lead to symptoms such as redness, itching, swelling, and rash at the site of contact with the allergen. Common causes include contact dermatitis, eczema, or allergic reactions to chemicals, plants, or certain metals.
Delayed hypersensitivity reactions, also known as type IV hypersensitivity reactions, are caused by T cells recognizing antigens and triggering an immune response. This can happen hours to days after exposure to the antigen. Common triggers include certain drugs, metals, and infectious agents.
Common allergens are substances that cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to them. Pollen and pet dander are common allergens.
There is concern that the process used to genetically modify plants can cause unintentional changes that result in new allergens, which might result in allergic reactions, but whether new allergens have resulted from genetic enginnering is not known.
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Hypersensitivity is also known as allergic reaction, exaggerated immune response, or allergic sensitivity.
The immune system helps defend the body from allergic reactions by producing antibodies to neutralize potential allergens. Specialized immune cells called mast cells and basophils release histamine and other chemicals in response to allergens, triggering allergy symptoms. Antihistamines can help block these chemicals and reduce allergic reactions.
The most common type of immediate hypersensitivity is type I hypersensitivity, also known as allergic reactions. This type of hypersensitivity involves the production of IgE antibodies in response to an allergen, which leads to the release of histamine and other mediators that cause symptoms such as itching, hives, and anaphylaxis.