Allergen Overview

Allergen Guide

RightHealthRIGHTHEALTH

  • Summary
  • Definition
  • Information
Reviewed By Donald Accetta, MD

Definition

An allergen is a substance that can cause an allergic reaction. Allergens are substances that, in some people, the immune system recognizes as "foreign" or "dangerous" but cause no response for most people.


Information

Common allergens include:

  • Bacteria, viruses, and animal parasites
  • Chemicals
  • Dust
  • Drugs (such as antibiotics, serums)
  • Foods (such as milk, chocolate, strawberries, wheat)
  • Perfumes
  • Plants
  • Pollen

Keep reading...

Encyclopedia: Allergen

Wikipedia.orgWIKIPEDIA.ORG

An allergen is a nonparasitic antigen capable of stimulating a type-I hypersensitivity reaction in atopic individuals. Most humans mount significant IgE responses only as a defense against parasitic infections. However, some individuals mount an IgE response against common environmental antigens. This hereditory predisposition is called atopy. In atopic individuals, non-parasitic antigens stimulate inappropriate IgE production, leading to type I hypersensitivity. Sensitivities vary from one person to another and it is...
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Yahoo! Answers

Yahoo! AnswersYAHOO! ANSWERS

How long does dog dander around the home remain an active allergen once a dog...
My dog has been living inside our home for the past 2 1/2 years. ...

They will be a problem as long as they're in the house. Give the place a very thorough cleaning. Or get someone else to do it, since you're allergic. If you...

Asked by jimguard - 22 months ago

On the allergy test, what is the allergen on top of Dust Mites?
I got allergy tested and was positive for Dust Mites and when I got home...

My daughter recently took this test and was also allergic to dust mites. She had 2 irritated spots in the same area that the allergist said were both dust mites,...

Asked by Vivian T - 375 days ago

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