Terms Flashcards
Allergen
A substance that causes an allergic reaction
Allergic reaction
The bodies exaggerated immune response to an internal or surface agent
Anaphylaxis
An extreme life-threatening systemic allergic reaction that may include shock and respiratory failure
Angioedema
Localized areas of swelling beneath the skin often around the eyes and lips, but can also involve other body areas as well
Envenomation
The act of injecting venom
Epinephrine
Some 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
Histamines
Chemical substances released by the immune system and allergic reactions that are responsible for many of the symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as vasodilation
Immune response
The bodies response to a substance perceived by the body as foreign
Immune system
The body system that includes all of the structures and processes designed to amount a defense against foreign substances and disease causing agents
Immunology
The study of the bodies immune system
Leukotrienes
Chemical substances that contribute to anaphylaxis; released by the immune system and allergic reaction
Stridor
A harsh, high-pitched respiratory sound generally heard during inspiration that is caused by partial blockage, or narrowing of the upper airways; may be audible without stethoscope
Toxin
A harmful substance produced by living cells or organisms
Urticaria
Small areas of generalized itching and or burning that appear as multiple raised areas on the skin; hives
Wheal
Erased, swollen, well-defined area on the skin, resulting from an insect bite or allergic reaction
