ABSTRACT
Obtaining an accurate clinical history is fundamental to the holistic approach of modern day medicine. In allergology, the clinical examination is usually unremarkable. A detailed allergy history could provide a clear direction for specific IgE testing and avoid an unnecessary allergen challenge. IgE mediated reactions are caused by mast cell degranulation and occur soon after allergen exposure. The hallmark symptoms of IgE mediated reaction include sneezing, pruritus, urticaria, angioedema, bronchospasm, hypotension and tachycardia and rarely full blown anaphylaxis. Establishing a link between a potential trigger and the patient’s reactions is an essential part in the allergy history. The clinician should question whether the culprit could consistently reproduce the symptoms within a similar time frame. Although the mechanism is not clear, it is well known that co-factors such as the Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, exercise, alcohol, stress, and menstruation can potentially trigger or exacerbate symptoms of allergy.
