Is it allergy?

BACKGROUND

'Allergy' refers to disorders involving IgE antibody. The cross linking of IgE molecules on mast cells by an allergen releases mediators that produce the typical allergic reaction.

OBJECTIVE

To distinguish allergies from other disorders, particularly those where mast cells are also involved.

DISCUSSION

Many non allergic processes can mimic allergy. A careful history and examination and discriminate use of investigations is important to make the distinction.