atopy

Definition

A hereditary disorder marked by the tendency to develop localized immediate hypersensitivity reactions to allergens such as pollen, food etc and is manifested by hay fever, asthma, or similar allergic conditions; generally considered to be caused by the interaction of environmental and genetic factors.

Etymology

From Ancient Greek ἀτοπία (atopía, “extraordinary nature”), from ἄτοπος (átopos), from ἀ- (a-) + τόπος (tópos, “place”).

Example Sentences

• "Whatever factor is invoked to explain the increase in asthma must also be capable of explaining other outbreaks of atopy."

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