Allergies

Question 1

Allergies

What is an allergy (immunologically)?

Answer 1

• an overreaction of the immune system to ordinarily harmless substances (allergens)
• leads to the production of IgE antibodies specific to the allergen
• upon re-exposure, these antibodies prompt a cascade of immunological events, culminating in the release of inflammatory mediators (ie histamine)
• resulting effects manifest as the symptoms we associate with an allergic reaction

Question 2

Allergies

Name some benign -> severe symptoms.

Answer 2

benign
- sneezing
- itchy eyes
- skin rash

severe
- gi disturbance
- breathing difficulties
- cardiovascular collapse

Question 3

Allergies

What investigations do we do?

Answer 3

clinical history is most important
- Skin prick testing and blood tests for specific IgE antibodies
- referal to specialist allergy services (oral food challenges)

Question 4

Allergies

Management

Answer 4

patient education
- allergen avoidance
- medication use (adrenaline)
- how to seek help

Question 5

Allergies

Name top 10 food allergies in UK

Answer 5

• cow’s milk/dairy
• eggs
• fish
• food additives
• peanuts
• sesame
• shellfish
• soy
• tree nuts
• wheat