Glossary of terms
Baffled by basophils, ignorant about IgE? Here's what it all means.
- Allergen: an allergy-causing substance;
- Antibody: a B-cell produced protein molecule made in response to, and reactive with, a specific antigen;
- Antigen: a substance capable of causing the production of antibodies and then reacting specifically with these antibodies;
- B-cell (B-lymphocyte): a type of white blood cell capable of producing antibodies;
- Basophil: a white blood cell containing histamine and other allergy mediators;
- Histamine: a chemical present mainly in mast cells that, when released, causes many of the symptoms of allergy;
- IgE: the type of antibody most instrumental in allergic reactions;
- Lymph nodes: small organs within the lymph system located at the intersections of lymph channels;
- Lymphocyte: a type of white blood cell instrumental in antibody production;
- Mast cell: a type of cell containing histamine and other allergy mediators instrumental in the allergic response.
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
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