Intracutaneous reaction is a medical term commonly used to describe an allergic response to an injection. The correct spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as [ˌɪntrəˈkjuːteɪniəs riˈækʃən]. The "intra-" prefix means "inside," while "cutaneous" refers to the skin. The word is pronounced with stress on the second syllable, with the "c" being pronounced as a "k." Proper spelling of medical terms is crucial to ensure clarity and accuracy in diagnosis and treatment.
An intracutaneous reaction is a response that occurs within the layers of the skin, specifically the dermis. It refers to an inappropriate immune reaction to a specific antigen when it is injected or applied directly into the skin, leading to a localized immune response and subsequent inflammation. This reaction can occur as a result of various factors, such as allergens, irritants, or medications.
The process of an intracutaneous reaction typically involves the activation of immune cells in the skin called mast cells. These cells release chemical mediators, such as histamines, which cause blood vessels in the area to become more permeable, resulting in redness, swelling, and itching. The reaction often manifests as a raised wheal or papule at the injection site.
Intracutaneous reactions can vary in severity, from mild itching and redness to more significant allergic responses, such as hives or anaphylaxis. The intensity of the reaction may depend on factors such as the individual's immune system and their sensitivity to the specific antigen.
Medical professionals often use intracutaneous reactions as part of diagnostic tests, such as skin allergy testing or tuberculin skin tests. These tests involve injecting or applying a small amount of the suspected allergen or antigen into the skin and observing for any local skin reactions.
Overall, an intracutaneous reaction is a localized immune response that occurs within the skin, characterized by inflammation, redness, swelling, and itching, usually in response to the introduction of an antigen into the dermis.
A tuberculous cutireaction following the injection into the substance of the skin of a very minute quantity of tuberculin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "intracutaneous reaction" is composed of two main parts: "intra-" and "cutaneous", both derived from Latin.
1. "Intra-" is a Latin prefix meaning "within" or "inside".
2. "Cutaneous" comes from the Latin word "cutis", meaning "skin".
Thus, "intracutaneous" refers to something that occurs within or beneath the skin.
Regarding the term "reaction", it refers to a response or change that takes place in the body.
Combined, "intracutaneous reaction" describes a specific type of reaction or response that occurs within the skin.