Allergies Flashcards
1
Q
Allergies
What is an allergy (immunologically)?
A
- an overreaction of the immune system to ordinarily harmless substances (allergens)
- leads to the production of IgE antibodies specific to the allergen
- upon re-exposure, these antibodies prompt a cascade of immunological events, culminating in the release of inflammatory mediators (ie histamine)
- resulting effects manifest as the symptoms we associate with an allergic reaction
2
Q
Allergies
Name some benign -> severe symptoms.
A
benign
- sneezing
- itchy eyes
- skin rash
severe
- gi disturbance
- breathing difficulties
- cardiovascular collapse
3
Q
Allergies
What investigations do we do?
A
clinical history is most important
- Skin prick testing and blood tests for specific IgE antibodies
- referal to specialist allergy services (oral food challenges)
4
Q
Allergies
Management
A
patient education
- allergen avoidance
- medication use (adrenaline)
- how to seek help
5
Q
Allergies
Name top 10 food allergies in UK
A
- cow’s milk/dairy
- eggs
- fish
- food additives
- peanuts
- sesame
- shellfish
- soy
- tree nuts
- wheat