Allergic reaction is a sensitivity to a specific substance, called an allergen, that is contacted through the skin, inhaled into the lungs, swallowed or injected. The body's reaction to an allergen can be mild, such as a localized rash, or life-threatening, such as anaphalactic shock.

Review Date: 3/23/2001 12:00:00 AM Reviewed By:A.D.A.M. Medical Illustration Team

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