The last decade or so has been a period of advance in our understanding of the processes concerned in allergy and in the broader aspects of hypersensitivity. This progress has largely been due to three factors. Special basic developments in technique, among which are the cellular transfer of hypersensitivity and fluorescing and isotopic labeling of antigens and antibodies, have permitted investigations along lines hitherto impossible, As a result of newer techniques and other considerations the concept of hypersensitivity has broadened in scope and interest to include autoimmunity, cancer, homotransplantation, viral and bacterial infection, and collagen diseases. The immunology of hypersensitivity has emerged from its ivory tower. Basic scientists in this field have become components of groups in which internists, physiologists, pharmacologists, enzyme chemists, surgeons, and others cooperate in the plans and aims of research.
This book contains 18 chapters on various basic aspects of hypersensitivity. Among the subjects covered are