Allergies

Common Types of Allergy

The list of possible allergens may be limited only by the number of protein molecules in existence. However, some do turn up more than others. Many people suffer from seasonal, respiratory allergies, usually in the spring or fall and caused by pollen, mold and dust. Some people suffer from food allergies. Common allergenic foods are peanuts and shellfish. Of injected allergens, penicillin and insect venom are common offenders.

Types of Allergy

Definition

Allergic purpura (AP) is an allergic reaction of unknown origin causing red patches on the skin and other symptoms. AP is also called Henoch-Schonlein purpura, named after the two doctors who first described it.

Description

"Purpura" is a bleeding disorder that occurs when capillaries rupture, allowing small amounts of blood to accumulate in the surrounding tissues. In AP, this occurs because the capillaries are blocked by protein complexes formed during an abnormal immune reaction. The skin is the most obvious site of reaction, but the joints, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys are also often affected.
AP affects approximately 35,000 people in the United States each year. Most cases are children between the ages of two and seven. Boys are affected more often than girls, and most cases occur from late fall to winter.