An allergic reaction occurs when the body comes in contact with the allergen. This can occur through contact with the skin, inhalation, injection or ingestion of the substance.

Medical treatment includes: avoidance of the allergen, medications to reduce the symptoms of the allergic reaction or injections to desensitize the patient to the allergen. The medical classification of a "true allergy" requires an IgE-mediated response. However, there are also non-IgE-immune sensitivities as well as involvement with IgA, IgG or IgG4.

The use of the word "allergy" has become a generic term used by the public to describe allergies, sensitivities and intolerances. The distinction of a true allergy based on immunoglobulin involvement is generally unknown. Therefor, the term "allergy" is often understood as a term for any negative reaction from exposure to a benign substance. AAT treats the symptoms caused by any negative or inappropriate reaction regardless if the symptoms are caused by allergies or sensitivities