Condition Lookup
Category:
Allergic Disorders
Number of Conditions: 29
Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Respiratory Allergies
Symptoms:
sneezing; runny or stuffy nose; itchy eyes, nose, or throat; watery, red, or swollen eyes; postnasal drip; fatigue
Root Cause:
Overreaction of the immune system to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or mold.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, physical examination, skin prick tests, or specific IgE blood tests.
Treatment:
Antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids, decongestants, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots).
Medications:
Oral or intranasal antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine , Fexofenadine , Diphenhydramine , Azelastine ), intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone , Budesonide , Mometasone , Beclomethasone ), leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., Montelukast ), decongestants for short-term use (e.g., Pseudoephedrine , Phenylephrine , Oxymetazoline ), and allergy immunotherapy (e.g., Grastek , Ragwitek ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10-30% of the global population.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies, atopic conditions, exposure to allergens, urban living, pollution.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with treatment; symptoms may persist but can improve with allergen avoidance and therapy.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sinusitis, sleep disturbances, reduced quality of life, potential development of asthma.
Contact Dermatitis
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Skin Allergies
Symptoms:
red, itchy rash; blisters or hives; swelling and tenderness; cracking or peeling skin
Root Cause:
Skin reaction caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergen.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Patch testing, clinical history, and identification of exposure to irritants/allergens.
Treatment:
Avoidance of irritants/allergens, topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, and emollients.
Medications:
Topical corticosteroids (e.g., Hydrocortisone , Betamethasone ) and oral antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine , Loratadine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects up to 20% of the population at some point.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupations with frequent exposure to chemicals or irritants, personal or family history of allergies.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Usually resolves upon avoidance of triggers; chronic exposure can lead to persistent symptoms.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary skin infections, chronic dermatitis.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Skin Allergies
Symptoms:
dry, scaly skin; itching (often severe); red, inflamed patches; crusting or oozing lesions; thickened, leathery skin in chronic cases
Root Cause:
Chronic inflammatory skin condition involving immune dysregulation and a defective skin barrier.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, patient history, exclusion of other skin disorders, and occasionally skin biopsy.
Treatment:
Topical corticosteroids, moisturizers, calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, and biologic medications (e.g., dupilumab).
Medications:
Topical corticosteroids (e.g., Hydrocortisone , Triamcinolone ), topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., Tacrolimus , Pimecrolimus ), and oral antihistamines (e.g., Cetirizine , Diphenhydramine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 15-20% of children and 1-3% of adults worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis; environmental triggers; stress; low humidity.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; often improves with age in children but may persist or recur in adulthood.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial or viral infections, sleep disturbances, and mental health issues like anxiety or depression.
Urticaria (Hives)
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Skin Allergies
Symptoms:
raised, itchy welts on the skin; red or skin-colored bumps; swelling; flares triggered by allergens or stress
Root Cause:
Histamine release from mast cells due to an allergic or non-allergic trigger.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, patient history, and allergen testing if a trigger is suspected.
Treatment:
Antihistamines, corticosteroids for severe cases, and avoidance of triggers.
Medications:
Non-sedating antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine , Fexofenadine ), sedating antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine , Hydroxyzine ), and corticosteroids for severe cases (e.g., Prednisone ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 20% of people at some point in their lives.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Allergies, infections, stress, and certain medications or foods.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Acute cases resolve within hours or days; chronic urticaria may last months to years.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Angioedema, anaphylaxis in severe cases.
Angioedema
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Skin Allergies
Symptoms:
swelling of the deeper layers of the skin; often affects lips, eyes, hands, feet, or genitals; can cause throat swelling and breathing difficulties in severe cases
Root Cause:
Increased vascular permeability due to allergic or idiopathic triggers or hereditary factors.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, patient history, allergen testing, and sometimes complement level testing for hereditary forms.
Treatment:
Antihistamines, corticosteroids, epinephrine for severe cases, and C1 inhibitor concentrate for hereditary cases.
Medications:
Oral antihistamines (e.g., Cetirizine , Fexofenadine ), corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ), and epinephrine for anaphylaxis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Exact prevalence unknown; hereditary angioedema affects approximately 1 in 50,000 people.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history (hereditary form), allergies, and ACE inhibitors.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; acute cases resolve with treatment, but hereditary forms require ongoing management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Airway obstruction, asphyxiation in severe cases.
Allergic Asthma
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Respiratory Allergies
Symptoms:
wheezing; shortness of breath; chest tightness; coughing, especially at night or early morning; triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, or mold
Root Cause:
Inflammation and constriction of the airways due to immune system overreaction to allergens.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Lung function tests (spirometry), allergy testing, medical history, peak flow measurement.
Treatment:
Inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, leukotriene receptor antagonists, allergen avoidance, biologic therapies (e.g., monoclonal antibodies).
Medications:
Inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone , Budesonide , Mometasone ), long-acting beta agonists (e.g., Salmeterol , Formoterol used with ICS), leukotriene modifiers (e.g., Montelukast ), biologics for severe asthma (e.g., Omalizumab , Mepolizumab , Dupilumab ), and rescue medications (e.g., Albuterol , Levalbuterol ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 8-10% of the global population; up to 60% of asthma cases have an allergic component.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of asthma or allergies, exposure to allergens, pollution, smoking, respiratory infections in childhood.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms are controllable with proper management; untreated asthma can lead to chronic lung issues.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe asthma attacks, chronic obstructive airway disease, decreased quality of life, potential hospitalization.
Seasonal Allergies (Pollen Allergy)
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Respiratory Allergies
Symptoms:
sneezing; nasal congestion; itchy and watery eyes; coughing; wheezing or difficulty breathing in some cases
Root Cause:
Immune system response to seasonal pollen release from trees, grasses, or weeds.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick testing or specific IgE blood tests against common pollens; patient history.
Treatment:
Antihistamines, nasal sprays, leukotriene receptor antagonists, allergen immunotherapy.
Medications:
Oral or intranasal antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine , Fexofenadine , Diphenhydramine , Azelastine ), intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone , Budesonide , Mometasone , Beclomethasone ), leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., Montelukast ), decongestants for short-term use (e.g., Pseudoephedrine , Phenylephrine , Oxymetazoline ), and allergy immunotherapy (e.g., Grastek , Ragwitek ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Around 10-20% of the population in temperate climates, depending on pollen season intensity.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, high pollen exposure, other allergic conditions (e.g., eczema or asthma).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with medications and allergen avoidance strategies; symptoms return seasonally.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sinus infections, exacerbation of asthma, and chronic nasal inflammation.
Perennial Allergic Rhinitis
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Respiratory Allergies
Symptoms:
chronic sneezing; nasal congestion; itchy nose; persistent runny nose; postnasal drip
Root Cause:
Immune system overreaction to year-round allergens like dust mites, mold, or pet dander.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick or blood tests for perennial allergens; patient history and physical exam.
Treatment:
Allergen avoidance, antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal sprays, immunotherapy for chronic cases.
Medications:
Oral or intranasal antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine , Fexofenadine , Diphenhydramine , Azelastine ), intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone , Budesonide , Mometasone , Beclomethasone ), leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., Montelukast ), and decongestants for short-term use (e.g., Pseudoephedrine , Phenylephrine , Oxymetazoline ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects up to 13% of the global population.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Indoor allergen exposure, atopic family history, presence of other allergies or asthma.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Long-term management can control symptoms effectively; not curable but treatable.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic sinusitis, impaired sleep, reduced productivity and quality of life.
Milk Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Food Allergies
Symptoms:
hives; vomiting; stomach cramps; diarrhea; wheezing; anaphylaxis in severe cases
Root Cause:
Immune system reaction to milk proteins, primarily casein or whey.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick testing, specific IgE blood tests, oral food challenges under medical supervision.
Treatment:
Complete avoidance of milk and milk-containing products, use of epinephrine for anaphylaxis.
Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q) for anaphylaxis and oral antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine , Loratadine ) for mild reactions.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1-3% of children; often outgrown by adolescence.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies, eczema, or asthma; early exposure to cow's milk proteins.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good for most children as they often outgrow it; lifelong management needed for persistent cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, nutritional deficiencies if not replaced properly, social challenges.
Egg Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Food Allergies
Symptoms:
skin reactions like hives or eczema; stomach pain; nausea; nasal congestion; anaphylaxis in severe cases
Root Cause:
Immune system reaction to proteins in egg whites or yolks, most commonly ovalbumin.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick tests, specific IgE blood tests, oral food challenge.
Treatment:
Avoidance of eggs and egg-based products, epinephrine for severe reactions, oral immunotherapy in some cases.
Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q) for anaphylaxis and oral antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine , Loratadine ) for mild reactions.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 0.5-5% of children; many outgrow it by age 5-
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies, atopic conditions, early introduction of eggs in diet.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable for most children; lifelong management needed for persistent cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, dietary restrictions leading to potential nutrient deficiencies.
Peanut Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Food Allergies
Symptoms:
hives; swelling; difficulty breathing; vomiting; anaphylaxis
Root Cause:
Immune system response to peanut proteins, particularly arachin and conarachin.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick tests, specific IgE blood tests, oral food challenge.
Treatment:
Avoidance of peanuts, epinephrine for anaphylaxis, oral immunotherapy under medical supervision.
Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q), antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine , Cetirizine ), and oral immunotherapy (e.g., Palforzia in specific cases).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1-2% of the population; prevalence has been rising in recent decades.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, eczema, early or delayed introduction of peanuts in infancy.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Lifelong condition for many; emerging treatments like oral immunotherapy offer hope for desensitization.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anaphylaxis, social and psychological impacts, dietary restrictions.
Tree Nut Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Food Allergies
Symptoms:
skin reactions like hives; swelling of lips or tongue; difficulty swallowing; wheezing; anaphylaxis
Root Cause:
Immune system reaction to proteins in tree nuts such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, and pecans.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick tests, specific IgE blood tests, oral food challenge.
Treatment:
Avoidance of tree nuts, carrying epinephrine for severe reactions, allergen immunotherapy in development.
Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q) and oral antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine ) for mild reactions.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 0.5-1% of the population.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies, atopic conditions, prior allergic reactions to nuts.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Rarely outgrown; lifelong management is often necessary.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, cross-reactivity with other nuts, social and dietary challenges.
Shellfish Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Food Allergies
Symptoms:
hives; itching; swelling; wheezing or difficulty breathing; nausea or vomiting; anaphylaxis in severe cases
Root Cause:
Immune system reaction to proteins found in shellfish, such as tropomyosin.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick tests, specific IgE blood tests, oral food challenge under medical supervision.
Treatment:
Complete avoidance of shellfish, use of epinephrine for anaphylaxis, education on reading food labels.
Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q) and oral antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine , Loratadine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 2% of adults and 0.5% of children; more common in adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies, previous allergic reactions to shellfish.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Rarely outgrown; lifelong management is typically necessary.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anaphylaxis, cross-reactivity with other shellfish, dietary restrictions.
Fish Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Food Allergies
Symptoms:
hives; swelling; stomach pain; nausea; difficulty breathing; anaphylaxis
Root Cause:
Immune system reaction to fish proteins, such as parvalbumin.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick testing, specific IgE blood tests, oral food challenge.
Treatment:
Avoidance of fish, use of epinephrine for severe reactions, education on avoiding cross-contamination.
Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q) and oral antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine , Cetirizine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1% of the global population; more common in adults than children.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies, prior reactions to fish, geographic dietary practices.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Rarely outgrown; lifelong avoidance is typically required.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, cross-reactivity with other types of fish, limited dietary options in certain regions.
Wheat Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Food Allergies
Symptoms:
hives; swelling; nausea; vomiting; difficulty breathing; anaphylaxis
Root Cause:
Immune system reaction to proteins found in wheat, including gluten and albumin.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick tests, specific IgE blood tests, oral food challenge.
Treatment:
Avoidance of wheat products, substitution with gluten-free grains, use of epinephrine for severe reactions.
Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q) and oral antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine , Loratadine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 0.2-1% of children and adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies, atopic conditions, prior allergic reactions to wheat.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Many children outgrow it by age 12; adults may need lifelong management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, misdiagnosis with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, limited dietary options.
Soy Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Food Allergies
Symptoms:
hives; itching; swelling; stomach pain; nausea or vomiting; anaphylaxis in severe cases
Root Cause:
Immune system reaction to proteins in soybeans, such as glycinin and conglycinin.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick tests, specific IgE blood tests, oral food challenge under medical supervision.
Treatment:
Avoidance of soy products, reading food labels carefully, use of epinephrine for severe reactions.
Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q) and oral antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine , Cetirizine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 0.4% of children, with most outgrowing it by age
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies, early introduction of soy in diet.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good for most children, as it is often outgrown; lifelong management required for persistent cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, challenges with dietary management, potential cross-reactivity with other legumes.
Latex Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Skin Allergies
Symptoms:
itchy skin or hives upon contact with latex; runny nose; sneezing; difficulty breathing; anaphylaxis in severe cases
Root Cause:
Immune system reaction to proteins found in natural rubber latex.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick test, specific IgE blood test, and clinical history of reactions to latex products.
Treatment:
Avoidance of latex, antihistamines for mild reactions, and epinephrine for anaphylaxis.
Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q) and oral antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine , Loratadine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects up to 1-6% of the general population, higher in healthcare workers and those with frequent latex exposure.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Healthcare workers, people with multiple surgeries, or spina bifida.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with strict latex avoidance; severe cases require emergency preparedness for anaphylaxis.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis and cross-reactions with certain foods like bananas, avocados, and kiwis.
Penicillin Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Drug Allergies
Symptoms:
hives; swelling; shortness of breath; anaphylaxis in severe cases
Root Cause:
Immune system overreaction to penicillin antibiotics.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin testing for penicillin-specific IgE, clinical history, and sometimes graded oral challenges.
Treatment:
Avoidance of penicillin, alternative antibiotics, antihistamines, corticosteroids, and epinephrine for anaphylaxis.
Medications:
Antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine ), corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ), and epinephrine for severe reactions.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Reported by up to 10% of the population, but true allergy is confirmed in only about 1%.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous exposure to penicillin, family history of drug allergies.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with alternative medications; many people outgrow the allergy over time.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Limited antibiotic options, which may lead to suboptimal treatment.
Sulfa Drug Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Drug Allergies
Symptoms:
rash or hives; fever; swelling; difficulty breathing; stevens-johnson syndrome (rare but severe)
Root Cause:
Immune-mediated hypersensitivity to sulfonamide-containing medications.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, exclusion of other causes, and sometimes skin testing.
Treatment:
Discontinuation of sulfa drugs, antihistamines, corticosteroids, and supportive care for severe reactions.
Medications:
Antihistamines (e.g., Cetirizine , Diphenhydramine ) and corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ) for severe reactions.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 3% of the population.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
HIV infection, slow acetylator phenotype, and female gender.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt discontinuation of the drug; severe cases require close monitoring.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
NSAID Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Drug Allergies
Symptoms:
hives or angioedema; wheezing; nasal congestion; anaphylaxis in severe cases
Root Cause:
Hypersensitivity reaction to NSAIDs caused by immune or non-immune mechanisms.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, oral challenge, and exclusion of other causes.
Treatment:
Avoidance of NSAIDs, use of alternative medications like acetaminophen, and desensitization protocols when necessary.
Medications:
Antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Diphenhydramine ) and epinephrine for anaphylaxis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 0.1-0.3% of the general population.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Asthma, chronic urticaria, nasal polyps.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with avoidance of offending drugs; severe reactions require emergency preparedness.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Life-threatening anaphylaxis, limited treatment options for pain or inflammation.
Anesthesia Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Drug Allergies
Symptoms:
hives or rash; difficulty breathing; low blood pressure; anaphylaxis
Root Cause:
Immune-mediated reaction or direct histamine release triggered by anesthetic agents.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, perioperative monitoring, skin testing, or specific IgE testing.
Treatment:
Avoidance of the specific anesthetic, preoperative antihistamines or corticosteroids, and epinephrine for anaphylaxis.
Medications:
Epinephrine for severe reactions, corticosteroids (e.g., Hydrocortisone ) for inflammation, and antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
True allergies are rare, estimated at 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 20,000 anesthesia administrations.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous surgeries, atopy, and certain medications.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate preoperative planning and alternative anesthetic options.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, cardiac arrest, or death in rare cases.
Chemotherapy Drug Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Drug Allergies
Symptoms:
hives or rash; swelling; shortness of breath; fever; anaphylaxis
Root Cause:
Hypersensitivity reaction to chemotherapeutic agents due to immune activation or direct mast cell degranulation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, skin testing, and drug challenge under close supervision.
Treatment:
Premedication with antihistamines or corticosteroids, desensitization protocols, or alternative agents.
Medications:
Premedication with corticosteroids (e.g., Dexamethasone ) and antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects up to 10% of patients receiving chemotherapy, depending on the drug.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous exposure to chemotherapy, atopy, female gender.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with premedication or desensitization; alternative drugs may be required in severe cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Delayed treatment, anaphylaxis, and therapy-limiting reactions.
Bee Sting Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Insect Allergies
Symptoms:
swelling at the sting site; redness; itching; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; anaphylaxis in severe cases
Root Cause:
An overreaction of the immune system to bee venom, leading to the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause allergic symptoms.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick test with bee venom extract; blood test for venom-specific IgE antibodies; clinical history of reactions to stings
Treatment:
Epinephrine injection for severe reactions; antihistamines for mild symptoms; immunotherapy (allergy shots) for long-term management; avoidance of bee stings
Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q), oral antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Diphenhydramine ), and corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ) for severe swelling.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 5% of the population; life-threatening reactions (anaphylaxis) occur in 0.5-3% of cases.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous allergic reaction to a sting; family history of sting allergies; frequent exposure to bees (e.g., beekeepers)
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with proper management; immunotherapy can reduce sensitivity over time.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis; cardiovascular collapse; death if not treated promptly in severe cases
Wasp Sting Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Insect Allergies
Symptoms:
pain and swelling at the sting site; redness; itching; hives; difficulty breathing; anaphylaxis in severe cases
Root Cause:
Immune system hypersensitivity to wasp venom, causing release of histamine and inflammatory chemicals.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick test with wasp venom extract; blood test for venom-specific IgE antibodies; clinical history of reactions to stings
Treatment:
Epinephrine injection for severe cases; antihistamines or corticosteroids for mild to moderate symptoms; immunotherapy for long-term desensitization; avoidance of stings
Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q), oral antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Diphenhydramine ), and corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ) for severe swelling.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Similar to bee sting allergy; affects around 5% of the population, with anaphylaxis occurring in 0.5-3%.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous allergic reactions to wasp stings; frequent exposure to wasps; family history of venom allergies
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; immunotherapy can reduce severity and frequency of reactions.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anaphylaxis; cardiovascular issues; potential death if untreated
Fire Ant Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Insect Allergies
Symptoms:
intense burning and itching; red swollen welts; pus-filled blisters; systemic allergic reactions such as hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis
Root Cause:
Hypersensitivity to alkaloid venom injected by fire ants, leading to an overactive immune response.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick or intradermal testing with fire ant venom; blood test for specific IgE antibodies; clinical history of reactions
Treatment:
Epinephrine for severe systemic reactions; antihistamines for localized symptoms; immunotherapy for long-term prevention; avoidance of fire ant habitats
Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q), oral antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Diphenhydramine ), and corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ) for severe swelling.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1% of the population in fire ant endemic areas.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in or traveling to fire ant-infested regions; history of previous fire ant stings; family history of venom allergies
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate management; immunotherapy highly effective in reducing reactions.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anaphylaxis; cardiac or respiratory arrest; skin infections from scratching blisters
Dust Mite Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Environmental Allergies
Symptoms:
sneezing; nasal congestion; runny nose; itchy or watery eyes; coughing; wheezing; asthma exacerbations
Root Cause:
Allergic reaction to proteins found in dust mite feces, body parts, and secretions.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick test with dust mite allergen; blood test for specific IgE antibodies; evaluation of symptom history
Treatment:
Antihistamines; nasal corticosteroids; decongestants; allergy immunotherapy; environmental control measures (e.g., using dust-proof bedding covers, regular vacuuming, humidity control)
Medications:
Oral or intranasal antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine , Fexofenadine , Azelastine ), intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone , Budesonide ), leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., Montelukast ), and allergy immunotherapy (e.g., Dust Mite Sublingual Tablets like Odactra ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 10-20% of people worldwide; a leading cause of perennial allergic rhinitis.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies; exposure to dusty environments; living in humid climates
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms can be well-managed with treatment and environmental controls.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic sinusitis; asthma exacerbations; reduced quality of life due to persistent symptoms
Mold Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Environmental Allergies
Symptoms:
sneezing; nasal congestion; runny nose; itchy or watery eyes; coughing; postnasal drip; wheezing; asthma exacerbations
Root Cause:
Allergic reaction to mold spores inhaled from the environment, triggering immune system responses.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick test with mold allergens; blood test for specific IgE antibodies; assessment of environmental exposure
Treatment:
Antihistamines; nasal corticosteroids; decongestants; immunotherapy; removal or remediation of mold sources
Medications:
Oral or intranasal antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine , Fexofenadine ), intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone , Budesonide ), leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., Montelukast ), and environmental control measures.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10% of the population; varies by region and exposure.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living or working in damp or moldy environments; family history of allergies; asthma or other respiratory conditions
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with environmental control and medical treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic sinusitis; asthma attacks; allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in severe cases
Animal Dander Allergy (e.g., Cat, Dog)
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Environmental Allergies
Symptoms:
sneezing; runny nose; nasal congestion; itchy or watery eyes; wheezing; asthma symptoms
Root Cause:
Immune system overreacts to proteins found in animal skin flakes (dander), saliva, or urine.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick test with dander allergens; blood test for specific IgE antibodies; assessment of symptoms and exposure
Treatment:
Antihistamines; nasal corticosteroids; allergy immunotherapy; avoiding contact with animals; using air purifiers
Medications:
Oral or intranasal antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine , Fexofenadine ), intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone , Budesonide ), leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., Montelukast ), and immunotherapy for specific allergens.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 10-20% of the population; more common in people with asthma or other allergies.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to pets; family history of allergies; existing respiratory conditions
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with treatment and allergen avoidance.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic sinusitis; asthma exacerbations
Cockroach Allergy
Specialty: Allergies and Immunology
Category: Allergic Disorders
Sub-category: Environmental Allergies
Symptoms:
sneezing; nasal congestion; itchy or watery eyes; wheezing; asthma attacks; skin rashes
Root Cause:
Allergic reaction to proteins found in cockroach feces, saliva, and body parts.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick test with cockroach allergens; blood test for specific IgE antibodies; evaluation of living conditions
Treatment:
Antihistamines; nasal corticosteroids; allergy immunotherapy; pest control to reduce exposure
Medications:
Oral antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine ), intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone ), and allergen control measures.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 5-10% of the population, especially in urban areas.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in cockroach-infested areas; poor sanitation; family history of allergies
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms can be controlled with treatment and environmental management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Asthma exacerbations; chronic respiratory issues