Allergic reactions asthma

Moulds are a particular group of very small fungi which, under damp conditions, will grow on things such as walls, bread, cheese, leather and canvas. They can be beneficial (penicillin) or cause allergic reactions (asthma). Asthma attacks, athlete s foot and farmer s lung are all examples of fungal infections. 

Prolonged contact with certain chromium compounds may produce allergic reactions and dermatitis in some individuals (114). The initial response is usually caused by exposure to Cr(VI) compounds, but once the allergy is estabUshed, it is extended to the trivalent compounds (111,115). There is also limited evidence of possible chromium associated occupational asthma, but there is insufficient data to estimate a dose for assumed chromium-induced asthma. Reference 116 provides a summary and discussion of chromium hypersensitivity. 

Leukotrienes are rapidly produced and released during a Type I reaction (Fig. 3). They are responsible for a massive bronchoconstriction in allergic bronchial asthma and attract leukocytes, thus being proinflamma-tory. Consequently, antagonists of the LTC recqDtor have been proven useful in the therapy of bronchial asthma, often in combination with bronchodilators (example montelukast). 

Triggering of asthma attacks in asthmatics. This side effect is a pseudo-allergic reaction where COX-inhibition increases the availability of substrates for lipoxygenase, which are converted to broncho-constrictive leukotriens... 

Gaeta TJ. Clark S, Pelletier AJ. Camargo CA National study of US emergency department visits for acute allergic reactions, 1993-2004. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2007 98 360-365. 

Atopy A genetic predisposition to develop type I hypersensitivity reactions against common environmental antigens commonly seen in patients with allergic rhinitis, asthma, and atopic dermatitis. 

Eosinophil infiltration is a major feature of asthma and allergic reactions [203], These cells are not abundant during the acute phase of the response, but increase in number and account for 10-80% of the total cell infiltrate during the late phase. Furthermore, major basic protein (MBP), which is released from eosinophil granules, causes respiratory epithelial damage [204]. Since PAF is a potent activator of eosinophil functions [205], BN 52021 may interfere with the late phase response. 

The mechanism of sulfite-induced asthma is not well-understood. Reactions to sulfited foods probably depend on the sulfite residue level in the food, the sensitivity threshold of the individual, the type of food consumed, and whether sulfite exists in the free (more toxic) form or combined (less toxic) form. The toxicology of sulfites has been reviewed by Madhavi and Salunkhe (1995). Sulfite sensitivity is not a true allergic reaction (Taylor et al., 1988). The FDA initially estimated that more than 1 million Americans are sensitive to sulfites, but more recent estimates lowered the number of asthmatics who may be sulfite sensitive to 80,000-100,000 (Bush et al., 1986). 

MSG (monosodium- glutamate) flavour enhancer for foods may cause allergic reaction known as MSG symptom complex, with symptoms such as nausea and headache may worsen already severe asthma... 

The symptoms of IgE-mediated allergic reactions -such as rhinitis, conjunctivitis and asthma - can be ameliorated by temporary suppression of... 

IgE-mediated allergic reactions (p. 72) involve mast cell release of histamine (p. 114) and production of other mediators (such as leukotrienes, p. 196). Resultant responses include relaxation of vascular smooth muscle, as evidenced locally by vasodilation (e.g., conjunctival congestion) or systemically by hypotension (as in anaphylactic shock) enhanced capillary permeability with transudation of fluid into tissues— swelling of conjunctiva and mucous membranes of the upper airways ( hay fever ), cutaneous wheal formation contraction of bronchial smooth muscle-bronchial asthma stimulation of intestinal smooth musde—diarrhea. 

Immunologic findings in individuals with wood dust-induced asthma also vary. In some cases, a Type 1 allergic reaction is confirmed by the presence of IgE antibodies. Positive skin reactions and the presence of precipitating antibodies to wood dust or extracts may or may not occur. 

Epinephrine is used for relieving bronchial asthma, revival from anaphylactic shock, in hyperglycemic coma, and allergic reactions. It is used as a local vasoconstrictor, in particular, in ophthalmology for reducing intraocular pressure. 

Corticosteroids do not heal illnesses, but they are widely used in various conditions when it is necessary to utilize their anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressant, and mineralo-corticoid properties. In addition, they are used in replacement therapy for patients who have adrenal insufficiency. Corticosteroids can be used in vital situations for asthma, severe allergic reactions, and transplant rejections. They are effective in noninfectious granulomatous diseases such as sarcoidosis, collagen vascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and leukemia. Steroids are used as lotions, ointments, etc. in treating a number of dermatological and ophthalmologic diseases. 

Hypersensitivity reactions In patients sensitive to procaine or other ester-type local anesthetics, cross-sensitivity to procainamide is unlikely however, consider the possibility. Do not use procainamide if it produces acute allergic dermatitis, asthma or anaphylactic symptoms. 

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