Mast cell
A cell present in both the blood and tissues. It is full of granules which contain various proinflammatory mediators (notably histamine). In the course of an allergic reaction, these mast cells degranulate, releasing the mediators contained in the granules into the extracellular space.
To topMicrospore
The male fertilizing element of flowering plants. Pollen is made up of microspores.
To topMite
Minute animals belonging to the phylum Arthropoda (which also includes the insects, spiders and crustaceans). Many different species are parasitic for humans, and some transmit disease. Other microscopic species are common inside houses (e.g. Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, the house dust mite), notably infesting carpets and bedding. These organisms are responsible for many cases of allergy.
To top
