Adrenocorticotropic hormone, abbreviated ACTH, is a hor­mone that is produced by the pituitary gland. The hormone stimulates the production and release of corticosteroids (cortisone) by the ad­renal gland.

Also called autoallergic diseases, autoimmune diseases result when a person’s immune system reacts against its own tissues and organs.

Also called corticosteroid, cortisone is a hormone pro­duced by the adrenal gland or made synthetically. Sometimes it is used in treating allergic diseases. Although effective, cortisone has side effects, such as weight gain. Topical corticosteroids are applied to the skin to reduce the inflammation of eczema.

Urticaria, or hives, is a common skin condition that is probably familiar to everyone. It is a skin rash characterized by areas of localised swelling, usually very itchy and red, and occurring in various parts of the body. It usually lasts only a few hours and involves only the superficial areas of the skin. Urticaria has either an immunological or a nonimmunological cause. Angioedema is a similar condition, but involves the subcutaneous tissue. It ordinarily does not itch and is a more generalized swelling. See also Angioedema; Hives.

Allergy shots, also called immunotherapy or hyposensitization, are advised for certain cases when allergens such as pollens or molds are believed to contribute to the asthma, and when the elimination of these allergens from the environment is not practical. The group in which immunotherapy may prove most effective will, it is hoped, be better defined with improved diagnostic techniques such as bronchial inhalation challenges. Better control of studies is needed in evaluating immunotherapy for treating asthma patients. Although asthma is a chronic disease characterized by periodic bronchial obstruction, patients who understand their illnesses and medication programs, and who are willing to work closely with their physicians, can expect to live a relatively normal, productive life.

(egg-free, gluten-free, milk-free, wheat-free)

Mix dry ingredients in saucepan, then stir in cold water and mix well. Add hot water and cook just until mixture is clear. Let cool to lukewarm, then gradually add remaining ingredients, beating constantly.

Iodism is a group of symptoms that often accompany the chronic use of iodide drugs.