This glossary includes definitions on some of the most frequently used allergy terms:
- Allergen: an allergy-causing substance;
- Antibody: a B-cell produced protein molecule made in response to, and reactive with, a specific antigen;
- Antigen: a substance capable of causing the production of antibodies and then reacting specifically with these antibodies;
- B-cell (B-lymphocyte): a type of white blood cell capable of producing antibodies;
- Basophil: a white blood cell containing histamine and other allergy mediators;
- Histamine: a chemical present mainly in mast cells that, when released, causes many of the symptoms of allergy;
- IgE: the type of antibody most instrumental in allergic reactions;
- Lymph nodes: small organs within the lymph system located at the intersections of lymph channels;
- Lymphocyte: a type of white blood cell instrumental in antibody production;
- Mast cell: a type of cell containing histamine and other allergy mediators instrumental in the allergic response.
(Health24, updated February 2010)