[al-er-jee] 
| 1. | an abnormal reaction of the body to a previously encountered allergen introduced by inhalation, ingestion, injection, or skin contact, often manifested by itchy eyes, runny nose, wheezing, skin rash, or diarrhea. |
| 2. | hypersensitivity to the reintroduction of an allergen. Compare anaphylaxis. |
| 3. | Informal. a strong dislike or aversion, as toward a person or activity: He has an allergy to hard work. |
| al·ler·gy (āl'ər-jē) n. pl. al·ler·gies
[German Allergie : Greek allos, other; see allo- + Greek ergon, action; see werg- in Indo-European roots.] |
allergy al·ler·gy (āl'ər-jē)
n.
An abnormally high acquired sensitivity to certain substances, such as drugs, pollens, or microorganisms, that may include such symptoms as sneezing, itching, and skin rashes.
| allergy (āl'ər-jē) Pronunciation Key
An abnormally high immunologic sensitivity to certain stimuli such as drugs, foods, environmental irritants, microorganisms, or physical conditions, such as temperature extremes. These stimuli act as antigens, provoking an immunological response involving the release of inflammatory substances, such as histamine, in the body. Allergies may be innate or acquired in genetically predisposed individuals. Common symptoms include sneezing, itching, and skin rashes, though in some individuals symptoms can be severe. See also anaphylactic shock. |
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