COURSE XII: Histamine and Atopy – Eczema and Asthma

The focus of this lesson is the fascinating ancient chemical mediator employed by the immune system – histamine. First, we look at how it is created and broken down and its diverse functions in the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and nervous system. The cascade of symptoms that ensue when the ‘histamine bucket’ spills over, as well as the contributors to this excess, are explored. Finally, we consider the connection between stretchy skin, flexible joints, mast cells and histamine. Focus is then turned to two common conditions of histamine associated immune dysregulation or “atopy” – eczema and asthma. We look in detail at their clinical presentation, histopathology and contributory drivers. On the foundation of the understanding gathered, we consider short and long-term pathways to heal this imbalance.