Chapter 18 - Immunologic Emergencies | Vital Vocabulary Flashcards
Substances that cause an allergic reaction.
allergens
The body’s exaggerated immune response to an internal or surface agent.
allergic reaction
An extreme, life-threatening systemic allergic reaction that may include shock and respiratory failure.
anaphylaxis
The act of injecting venom.
envenomation
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.
epinephrine
Substances released by the immune system in allergic reactions that are responsible for many of the symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as vasodilation.
histamines
The body’s response to a substance received by the body as foreign.
immune response
The body system that includes all of the structures and process designed to mount a defense against foreign substances and disease-causing agents.
immune system
The study of the body’s immune system.
immunology
Chemical substances that contribute to anaphylaxis; released by the immune system in allergic reactions.
leukotrienes
A harsh, high-pitched respiratory sound, generally heard during inspiration, that is caused by partial blockage or narrowing of the upper airway.
stridor
A poison or harmful substance.
toxin
Small spots of generalized itching and/or burning that appear as multiple raised areas on the skin; hives.
urticaria
A raised, swollen, well-defined area on the skin resulting from an insect bite or allergic reaction.
wheal
A high-pitched, whistling breath sound, usually caused by a constriction of the smaller tubes of the lungs and typically heard on expiration.
wheezing
