Glossary of Allergy Terms

Allergen-substance that causes an allergic reaction

Allergenic-describes a substance which produces an allergic reaction

Antibody-molecule tailor-made by the immune system to lock onto and destroy specific germs

Basophils-white blood cells that contribute to inflammatory reactions

Conjunctivitis-inflammation of the lining of the eyelid, causing red-rimmed, swollen eyes, and crusting of the eyelids

Genes-units of genetic material that carry the directions a cell uses to perform a specific function

Granules-small particles; in cells the particles typically include enzymes and other chemicals

Immune system-a complex network of specialized cells, tissues, and organs that defends the body against attacks by disease-causing organisms

Inflammation-an immune system process that stops the progression of disease-causing organisms

Lymphocytes-small white blood cells which are important parts of the immune system

Mast cells-granule-containing cells found in tissue molecules-the building blocks of a cell. Some examples are proteins, fats, and carbohydrates organism-an individual living thing perennial-describes something that occurs throughout the year

Rhinitis-inflammation of the nasal passages, which can cause a runny nose sinuses-hollow air spaces located within the bones of the skull surrounding the nose

Sputum-matter ejected from the lungs and windpipe through the mouth tissues-groups of similar cells joined to perform the same function upper respiratory tract-area of the body which includes the nasal passages, mouth, and throat