Definition: A doctor that specializes in treating conditions that have to do with the immune system, including asthma and allergies.
The immune system is a group of organs and cells in the body that provides protection from things that threaten your health, such as germs and infections. In people who have asthma and/or allergies, the immune system wrongly interprets substances such as pollen and house dust as threats and initiates inflammation, which leads to the symptoms of asthma.
An immunologist must have special education, training, and certification in caring for people with immune system disorders. Immunologists are also allergists.
Also Known As: Allergist
Examples: An immunologist is the only kind of doctor who can safely administer allergy shots (immunotherapy).
