Introduction to hypersensitivity and inflammatory skin disorders

[Jason Yan]

Hypersensitivity and inflammatory skin disorders are caused by immune system reactions that involve the skin. (See also Drug Rashes.)
The immune system plays a vital role in maintaining the health of all the tissues of the body. The immune system reacts to invaders, such as microorganisms, foreign substances, or cancer cells, and triggers inflammation to attack these invaders. Usually the immune system reaction protects the body and aids healing. However, sometimes an immune system reaction is misdirected at healthy tissues and causes intense inflammation and damage.
Skin can be involved in a variety of immune system reactions, many of which cause rashes. The word