Ch 14 Key Terms

Question 1

allergen

Answer 1

a foreign substance (antigen) whose presence in the body stimulates an allergic reaction.

Question 2

allergic reaction

Answer 2

a series of signs and symptoms that occur in response to exposure to an allergen.

Question 3

allergy

Answer 3

an exaggerated immune response to a substance that does not normally cause a reaction.

Question 4

anaphylaxis

Answer 4

a severe allergic reaction that can result in serious cardiac or respiratory compromise.

Question 5

angioedema

Answer 5

swelling that occurs beneath the skin or mucosa as a result of an allergic reaction.

Question 6

antibody

Answer 6

a protein that is produced by the body to neutralize or destroy specific antigens.

Question 7

antigen

Answer 7

a foreign substance that when introduced into the body stimulates the production of an antibody; can be a variety of substances, including toxins, bacteria, foreign blood cells, or the cells of transplanted organs.

Question 8

histamine

Answer 8

a chemical that is released in the body as a result of an allergic reaction.

Question 9

hypersensitivity

Answer 9

an exaggerated immune response to an allergen, drug, or other foreign substance.

Question 10

pruritus

Answer 10

severe itching; frequently occurs in the skin during mild and moderate allergic reactions.

Question 11

urticaria

Answer 11

hives or rashes thataccompany an allergic reaction.