Page 62 - Anaphylaxis in Schools & Other Settings, 3rd Edition Revised

Note: This is not an extensive list of terms. You can find more terms at some of the allergy associations’ websites in Appendix L.
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Anaphylaxis in Schools & Other Settings
© 2005-2016 Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Appendix K
Idiopathic reaction: a reaction that results from an unknown cause.
Immune system: the infection-fighting part of the body; in allergic individuals, harmless substances
trigger the immune system to “fight”.
Immunology: the science and study of the immune system.
Immunotherapy: a series of desensitizing injections (allergy shots) prescribed by an allergist that may be used to protect against allergy – extremely small amounts of an allergen, such as stinging insect venom, are gradually given in increasing dosages until a tolerance develops – not available for all allergens.
Oral immunotherapy: an experimental desensitization treatment for food allergy. With this treatment, extremely small amounts of an allergen are gradually given in increasing dosages until a tolerance develops (the patient eats the food to which they are allergic). Not yet available as a routine treatment option.
Proteins: complex chemical substances made of amino acids; proteins are essential constituents of all living cells.
Protocol: a written plan to follow for management of a condition in case of an emergency; useful tool for schools, day cares, summer camps, etc.
Sensitization: an allergic response to an allergen that results in specific IgE antibodies being produced that allow allergic reactions whenever subsequent exposure occurs.
Skin tests: The placement of a small, dilute amount of allergen onto the skin of the arm or back, through which the skin is pricked, or the injection of a small, dilute amount of allergen under the skin. If the patient is allergic to that substance, a small raised area surrounded by redness will appear at the test site within 15 minutes.
Stock epinephrine auto-injector: a device which is not designated for a particular person and can be used to treat anaphylaxis. It is meant for occasions where an individual does not have an auto-injector with them (they forgot it, they have not been diagnosed and are having a first time reaction).
Systemic reaction: An allergic reaction that affects the whole body or body system, as opposed to a local reaction that is confined to the immediate area of exposure.
Triggers: Factors that can provoke allergic reactions or asthma episodes, including allergens and irritants.
Urticaria (see Hives)