Definition: Atopy is a medical term that comes from the Greek word, atopos, which means "out of place." It refers to a strong family tendency to develop what are known as classic allergic conditions, including nasal allergies, asthma, and eczema. Think of it as an increased risk for developing allergic disease.
Atopy is diagnosed when there is a strong family history of allergies and / or asthma and when IgE increases in response to common allergens in the environment.
Also Known As: Allergic genetic tendency
Alternate Spellings: Atopic, when used as an adjective
