atopy

atopy /at·o·py/ (at´ah-pe) a genetic predisposition toward the development of immediate hypersensitivity reactions against common environmental antigens (atopic allergy), most commonly manifested as allergic rhinitis but also as bronchial asthma, atopic dermatitis, or food allergy.

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at·o·py (t-p)

n.

A hereditary disorder marked by the tendency to develop immediate allergic reactions to substances such as pollen, food, dander, and insect venoms and manifested by hay fever, asthma, or similar allergic conditions. Also called atopic allergy.

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a·topic (-tpk) adj.

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Atopy

A state that makes persons more likely to develop allergic reactions of any type, including the inflammation and airway narrowing typical of asthma.

Mentioned in: Asthma

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atopy.

See atopic.

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atopy (ā´tōpē),

n (atopic hypersensitivity, “spontaneous” clinical allergy), a group of “allergic” disorders showing a marked familial distribution; although the susceptibility appears to be inherited, contact with the antigen must occur before hypersensitivity can develop. Disorders include asthma or hay fever resulting from pollens and gastrointestinal tract and skin reactions resulting from food.

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atopy

a clinical syndrome involving type I hypersensitivity (allergy) with a hereditary predisposition. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is involved.

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canine atopy

characterized by pruritus, often seasonal, mainly of feet, face and ventral body, with self-trauma. Secondary pyoderma, hyperhidrosis and otitis externa are often present. Rhinitis, conjunctivitis or gastrointestinal disorders may also occur.

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atopy

Clinical immunology A state of ↑ sensitivity to common antigens–eg, house dust, animal dander, pollen, with ↑ production of allergen-specific IgE; atopy may have a hereditary component as there is ↑ susceptibility to hay fever, asthma, and eczematoid dermatitis. See Asthma, Atopic dermatitis, Hay fever.