Diagnostic and Therapeutic Principles In Allergy

Abstract

The incidence of allergic diseases, like asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergy, is increasing in Westernized countries. This chapter discusses the importance of taking a careful and focused history and physical examination, as well as the laboratory studies that can be used to demonstrate the presence of allergic sensitization. Treatment for allergic disease is discussed, with an emphasis on new biologic therapies that have been developed. Finally, the chapter explores relatively new studies on the potential for interventions to prevent food allergy. Allergy is defined as an untoward physiologic event mediated by immune mechanisms, usually involving the interaction between an allergen and the allergic antibody, immunoglobulin E (IgE). Allergic reactions typically occur due to exposure to either airborne allergens, foods, drugs, chemicals, or Hymenoptera (such as wasps, bees and fire ants). Allergies manifest in numerous ways, including allergic asthma, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, urticaria, eczema, and in its most severe form, anaphylaxis. This review contains 4 videos, 5 figures, 4 tables and 42 references Key Words: Delayed allergic reaction (Alpha-gal), Allergy diagnosis, Measurement of specific IgE, Allergy and asthma therapies, Anticytokine therapy (dupilumab, mepolizumab, reslizumab), AntiIgE therapy (omalizumab), Allergy skin testing, Basophil histamine release assay