Complement Deficiencies
Complement Deficiencies Jerry A. Winkelstein The complement system is composed of a series of plasma proteins and cellular receptors that, when functioning in an ordered and integrated fashion, serve as…
Disorders of Humoral Immunity
Disorders of Humoral Immunity Howard M. Lederman Antibodies play a critical role in the host’s defense against infection. Many of the protective functions of antibody, such as neutralization of viruses…
Clinical Presentation of Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases
Clinical Presentation of Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases Howard M. Lederman The primary immunodeficiency diseases were originally viewed as rare disorders, presenting early in life, with severe clinical symptoms. It has become…
The Immune System
The Immune System Howard M. Lederman The immune system is composed of a variety of cells (B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils) and their secretory products (antibodies, complement, and…
Insect Sting Allergy
Insect Sting Allergy Kenneth C. Schuberth For most children and adults, insect stings are common, painful, but not particularly hazardous. However, in approximately 1% of the general population, stings trigger…
Allergic Rhinitis and Associated Disorders
Allergic Rhinitis and Associated Disorders F. Estelle R. Simons Allergic rhinitis, or inflammation of the nasal mucosa, is the most common chronic disease of the respiratory tract and the most…
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic Dermatitis Hugh A. Sampson The French physician, Besnier, presented the first comprehensive description of atopic dermatitis over a century ago. He emphasized its hereditary nature, chronically recurring course, and…
Food Allergies
Food Allergies Hugh A. Sampson Adverse food reactions may be divided into toxic and nontoxic reactions. Toxic reactions may occur in anyone, provided a sufficient dose is ingested (e.g., histamine…
Urticaria and Angioedema
Urticaria and Angioedema Thomas B. Casale Jeffrey R. Stokes Urticaria (hives) is characterized by erythematous, edematous wheals of the superficial layers of the skin or mucous membranes. The lesions blanch…
