Chapter 18

Question 1

allergens

Answer 1

Substances that cause an allergic reaction

Question 2

allergic reaction

Answer 2

The body’s exaggerated immune response to an internal or surface agent

Question 3

anaphylaxis

Answer 3

An extreme, life-threatening systemic allergic reaction that may include shock and respiratory failure

Question 4

envenomation

Answer 4

The act of injecting venom

Question 5

epinephrine

Answer 5

A substance produced by the body (commonly called adrenaline), and a drug produced by pharmaceutical companies that increases pulse rate and blood pressure; the drug of choice for an anaphylactic reaction

Question 6

histamines

Answer 6

Substances released by the immune system in allergic reactions that are responsible for many of the symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as vasodilation

Question 7

immune response

Answer 7

The body’s response to a substance perceived by the body as foreign

Question 8

immune system

Answer 8

The body system that includes all of the structures and processes designed to mount a defense against foreign substances and disease-causing agents

Question 9

immunology

Answer 9

The study of the body’s immune system

Question 10

leukotrienes

Answer 10

Chemical substances that contribute to anaphylaxis; released by the immune system in allergic reactions

Question 11

stridor

Answer 11

A harsh, high-pitched respiratory sound, generally heard during inspiration, that is caused by partial blockage or narrowing of the upper airway

Question 12

toxin

Answer 12

A poison or harmful substance

Question 13

urticaria

Answer 13

Small spots of generalized itching and/or burning that appear as multiple raised areas on the skin; hives

Question 14

wheal

Answer 14

A raised, swollen, well-defined area on the skin resulting from an insect bite or allergic reaction

Question 15

wheezing

Answer 15

A high-pitched, whistling breath sound, usually caused by a constriction of the smaller tubes of the lungs and typically heard on expiration