The state of allergy

Abstract

Allergy has been described by von Pirquet as a state of altered reactivity; by other, somewhat hostile, observers as a state of complete ignorance, and by still others as a state of mind. The only point of agreement is that it is a state of some kind and it is on the basis that we predicate this discussion. A dispassionate, even pragmatic recital of the geography, topography, and other characteristics as viewed by the unbiased outsider may be of some value. The state of allergy is bounded on the north by the internist, on the east by the dermatologist, on the south by the rhinologist, and on the west by the pediatrician. In fact, this state has been carved out of the territory originally within the confines of the surrounding states and its borders are still ill defined. A great deal of argument, sometimes acrimonious, is going on continually as to the claims of territory by the surrounding states and even the right to separate statehood is opposed by some of the more pugnacious neighbors whose love of country is aroused at the prospect of loss of territory to those whom they regard as interlopers. The response that this was unexplored territory which, by right of conquest, belongs to the explorer is of no avail. The more moderate are willing to cede the territory to those who have gone in and developed it but the patriot insists that homesteading days are over and refuses to recognize the homesteader. The topography of the state is quite similar to that of those adjoining it. There are mountain peaks from which one gets a view of grandeur which thrills the heart of the explorer. There are deep, rough valleys in which one may easily lose his bearings and become lost in darkness. There are fertile plains which offer rich yield to him who cultivates them. There is stony ground where one may exhaust himself without reward. There are dense forests in which one may lose his way and beaten paths on which he may travel with comfort and safety. This is a vast territory and most of it still awaits the