AAOA allergy primer: history and physical examination.

Background Allergic disease is very common in the general population and makes a significant impact on the quality of life of patients. Immunoglobulin E(IgE)-mediated allergic disease manifests throughout the body, but many signs and symptoms of inhalant allergyare centered in the head and neck region. Methods A thorough yet focused history of allergic symptoms and potential physical examinationfindings of inhalant allergyare described. Results History should include types and timing of symptoms, environmental and occupational exposures, family history, associated diseases, and prior treatment, if any. Physical examinationshould include the skin and structures of the head and neck region. Nasal endoscopy can be helpful in visualization of nasal polyps. Conclusion Many times, history alone can serve to make the diagnosis, but physical examinationalso demonstrates specific findings that confirm the practitioner's presumptive diagnosisof allergic disease. However, should medical treatment fail or the diagnosis be in doubt, further diagnostic investigation with allergy testingshould be pursued.