All of the following statements about intrinsic allergic Asthma are true, Except:
**Core Concept**
Intrinsic allergic asthma is a type of asthma that is triggered by non-allergic factors such as stress, exercise, or environmental irritants, but is not caused by an allergic reaction to a specific antigen. It is characterized by a late-phase response, where symptoms occur hours after exposure to the trigger, and is often associated with eosinophilic inflammation.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Intrinsic allergic asthma is often seen in adults and is more common in smokers. The late-phase response is mediated by the release of histamine, leukotrienes, and other chemical mediators from mast cells, eosinophils, and other inflammatory cells. The eosinophilic inflammation leads to airway hyperresponsiveness and symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because intrinsic allergic asthma is not caused by an allergic reaction to a specific antigen, but rather by non-allergic factors.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because eosinophilic inflammation is a characteristic feature of intrinsic allergic asthma, not an extrinsic allergic asthma.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because intrinsic allergic asthma is often associated with smoking, not extrinsic allergic asthma.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Intrinsic allergic asthma is often challenging to diagnose and treat, as it does not respond well to traditional asthma medications. A high index of suspicion and careful evaluation of the patient's medical history are necessary to make an accurate diagnosis.
**Correct Answer: D.**