Chapter 20: Immunologic Emergencies 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 preceived by the body as foreign
immune response
The body system that includes all of the structures and processes 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
