Chp 21 Vocab

Question 1

allergen

Answer 1

A substance that causes 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

angioedema

Answer 4

Localized areas of swelling beneath the skin, often around the eyes and lips, but can also involve other body areas as well.

Question 5

envenomation

Answer 5

The act of injecting venom.

Question 6

epinephrine

Answer 6

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 7

histamines

Answer 7

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

Question 8

immune response

Answer 8

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

Question 9

immune system

Answer 9

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

Question 10

immunology

Answer 10

The study of the body’s immune system.

Question 11

leukotrienes

Answer 11

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

Question 12

stridor

Answer 12

A harsh, high-pitched respiratory sound, generally heard during inspiration, that is caused by partial blockage or narrowing of the upper airway; may be audible without a stethoscope.

Question 13

toxin

Answer 13

A harmful substance produced by living cells or organisms.

Question 14

urticaria

Answer 14

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

Question 15

wheal

Answer 15

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

Question 16

wheezing

Answer 16

A high-pitched, whistling breath sound that is most prominent on expiration and which suggests an obstruction or narrowing of the lower airways; occurs in asthma and bronchiolitis.