Atopic Disease Flashcards
What is the primary cause of allergic rhinitis?
An IgE-mediated response to an extrinsic protein in a predisposed individual.
What happens during the atopic march?
Progression of atopic diseases over time.
What is the hygiene hypothesis related to?
The idea that a lack of early childhood exposure to infectious agents increases susceptibility to allergic diseases.
What role do mast cells play in allergic rhinitis?
They release mediators that cause symptoms when specific proteins bind to IgE on their surface.
What are some symptoms caused by the mediators released in allergic rhinitis?
Rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, sneezing, itching, redness, tearing, swelling, ear pressure, and postnasal drip.
What are some of the mediators released by mast cells in allergic rhinitis?
Tryptase, chymase, kinins, heparin, leukotrienes, and prostaglandin D2.
What are the primary symptoms caused by mediators in rhinitis?
Rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, sneezing, itching, redness, tearing, swelling, ear pressure, postnasal drip.
Why is it important to treat rhinitis?
It affects the quality of life.
What are the two methods used for allergy testing?
Prick test and intradermal test.
What factors influence the number of skin tests performed?
Patient’s age, geographic location, and history of allergic disease.
What is the procedure for puncture/prick testing?
Use a disease-free site, swipe with alcohol, apply antigen drop, puncture at 90 degrees, lift device gently, read results in 10-20 minutes.
