4.Pathomechanism of Allergic Rhinitis
–Upon exposure to an allergen, atopic individuals respond by producing allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE). These IgE antibodies bind to IgE receptors on mast cells in the respiratory mucosa and to basophils in the peripheral blood. When the same allergen is subsequently inhaled, the IgE antibodies are bridged on the cell surface by allergen, resulting in activation of the cell. Mast cells in the nasal tissues release performed and granule-associated chemical mediators, which cause the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.