Allergies, also known as allergic diseases, are a number of
conditions caused by hypersensitivity of the immune system to
something in the environment that usually causes little or no problem in most people. These
diseases include hay fever, food allergies, atopic
dermatitis, allergic asthma, and anaphylaxis. Symptoms may
include red eyes, an itchy rash,runny nose, shortness of breath, or
swelling. Food intolerances and food poisoning are separate conditions.
Patch testing is a method used to determine if a
specific substance causes allergic inflammation of the skin. It tests for
delayed reactions. It is used to help ascertain the cause of skin contact
allergy, or contact dermatitis.
Several medications maybe used to block the action of
allergic mediators, or to prevent activation of cells and degranulation
processes. These include antihistamines,