History of allergy

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The prevalence of allergic diseases has surged in recent decades, leading to the term 'the epidemic of the 21st century.' While allergies have been recognized for over 2,000 years, the term 'allergy' was only established in the early 20th century as medical understanding evolved. This book offers a comprehensive historical overview of allergology, tracing insights from ancient times to the 20th century and detailing the development of relevant terminology. It includes reflections on common allergic diseases, significant milestones in understanding allergy mechanisms, and the identification of allergens like pollen, dust mites, peanuts, and latex, alongside environmental factors such as pollution and agricultural practices. The text highlights advancements in allergy management and features personal reflections and interviews with pioneers in the field, including notable figures like F. Austen and K. Ishizaka. Additionally, the book presents portrayals of allergy societies and collections, complemented by two films. This rich and illustrated resource is a valuable read for researchers, physicians, medical historians, students, and even non-scientists, making it a captivating scientific adventure.