Landmark Papers in Allergy: Seminal Papers in Allergy with Expert Commentaries

The increasing incidence and prevalence of allergic disease worldwide is one of the most remarkable phenomena of the past 50 years. One in three people in developed countries will experience an allergic condition at some point in their lives and advances in understanding the causes of this trend, and in allergy treatment and care, have captured the imagination of scientists, clinicians and the public.

Landmark Papers in Allergy is a definitive collection of over 90 papers charting key discoveries and scientific advances in relation to allergy and the development of treatment and care for allergic disorders. Comprehensive in its coverage, the book includes the first clear descriptions of allergic diseases; the major advances in treatments, such as the discovery of antihistamines, cortisone, biological therapies and immunotherapy; the great immunological advances, such as the discovery of immunoglobulin E (IgE) and leukotrienes; the factors behind the increase in allergy, such as the house dust mite, changes in hygiene and diet; and the growing understanding of the social, psychological and quality-of-life consequences of allergy.

Including authoritative commentaries from leading international experts providing reflections on the historical importance and current relevance of each landmark paper, Landmark papers in Allergy is essential reading for any clinician or academic with an interest in allergy.

Aziz Sheikh trained in Physiology and Medicine, graduating from University College London in 1990 and 1993. After completing his training in general practice, he decided to pursue an academic career specialising in the field of epidemiology. He has held academic posts in the Departments of Primary Health Care & General Practice at Imperial College, London and Public Health Sciences at St George's Hospital Medical School, London. He has since August 2003 held the post of Chair in Primary Care Research & Development in the Centre for Population Health Sciences at The University of Edinburgh. He is an Honorary Consultant in Paediatric Allergy in NHS Lothian. His major research interest is in studying the epidemiology and primary care management of asthma and allergic disorders, and he has published and presented extensively in this area in leading peer-refereed journals and international academic conferences/symposia.

Allison Worth trained as a nurse and worked in hospital and community settings and as a lecturer in nursing before undertaking a PhD and specialising in qualitative research. She currently manages the Allergy and Respiratory Research Group at The University of Edinburgh. Her research interests are in patient, family and health professional experiences of long-term illness and healthcare.