Allergic reactions: increasing immunological problems for health care providers and patients.

An increasing percentage of the general population develops allergy symptoms each year. Many of these harmful immune response manifestations are being directed at a wide variety of drugs and chemicals that are routinely used in dental and medical care facilities. It is, therefore, important for clinicians to be familiar with the major allergic signs and symptoms, understand the mechanism involved in patient sensitization and challenge, and be able to provide appropriate care should an allergic emergency arise during patient care. It is also advisable for clinicians to prepare as much as possible by taking an accurate patient allergy history.