chapter 21 - allergy Flashcards
Localized areas of swelling beneath the skin, often around the eyes and lips, but can also involve other body areas as well
angioedema
A harsh, high-pitched respiratory sound, generally heard during inspiration, that is caused by partial blockage or narrowing of the upper airway
stridor
The body’s exaggerated immune response to an internal or surface agent
allergic reaction
The act of injecting venom
envenomation
Chemical substances that contribute to anaphylaxis; released by the immune system in allergic reactions
leukotrienes
A poison or harmful substance
toxin
A substance that causes an allergic reaction
allergen
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
A medication that increases heart rate and blood pressure but also eases breathing problems by decreasing muscle tone of the bronchiole tree
epinephrine
An extreme, life-threatening, systemic allergic reaction that may include shock and respiratory failure
anaphylaxis
Chemical substances released by the immune system in allergic reactions that are responsible for many of the symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as vasodilation
histamines
The study of the body’s immune system
immunology
Small areas of generalized itching and/or burning that appear as multiple raised areas on the skin; hives
urticaria
The body’s response to a substance perceived by the body as foreign
immune response
A raised, swollen, well-defined area on the skin resulting from an insect bite or allergic reaction
wheal
