Which of the following phenomena best captures the rationale for allergy desensitization therapy?

A 40-year-old woman who experiences severe seasonal allergies has been referred by her family physician to an allergist for weekly allergy injections. The woman is confused as to why repeated exposure to substances that set off her allergies would ultimately benefit her. Which of the following phenomena best captures the rationale for allergy desensitization therapy?

Answers:

A. Injections of allergens simulate production of IgG, combining with the antigens to prevent activation of IgE antibodies.

B. Repeated exposure stimulates adrenal production of epinephrine, mitigating the allergic response.

C. Allergens in large, regular quantities overwhelm the IgE antibodies that mediate the allergic response.

D. Repeated exposure to offending allergens binds the basophils and mast cells that mediate the allergic response.