Michigan Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What can repeated exposure to an allergen cause?

1. Allergic reaction

2. Dermatitis

3. Hypersensitivity

4. Inflammation

The correct answer is: Allergic reaction

Repeated exposure to an allergen can indeed lead to an allergic reaction. When an individual encounters a substance that their immune system identifies as harmful—such as pollen, pet dander, or certain chemicals—the body may respond by producing antibodies, known as immunoglobulin E (IgE). Upon subsequent exposures to the same allergen, the immune system can trigger a stronger response, which often manifests as symptoms like itching, swelling, hives, or even more severe conditions like anaphylaxis. While dermatitis and inflammation can be related outcomes of allergic reactions, they represent broader conditions that can develop due to various causes, including allergens, irritants, or internal factors. Hypersensitivity, a term often used interchangeably with allergic reactions, encompasses a range of immune responses that can include allergic reactions but is not specifically about the immediate consequences of allergen exposure. Therefore, the most precise answer to what repeated exposure to an allergen can cause is an allergic reaction.