What is a common synonym for skin allergy reaction?

A common synonym for a skin allergy reaction is a "wheal." In dermatology, a wheal refers to a raised, itchy area of skin that is a result of an allergic reaction, often caused by conditions like urticaria (hives). Wheals are characterized by their paler center and reddened edges, and they occur due to the release of histamine from mast cells in response to allergens. This physiological response leads to localized swelling and redness, which distinctly identifies it as an allergic reaction rather than a different dermatological condition.

The other options provide important terms in the context of skin reactions, but they do not specifically denote an allergic reaction in the same manner that "wheal" does. "Adverse reaction" is a broader term that can apply to any negative response to a treatment or substance, not limited to allergies. "Inflammation" refers to the overall response of the body to injury or infection, which can be a part of allergic reactions but isn’t specific to them. "Infection" refers to the invasion of the body by pathogens, which is not related to allergens. Therefore, "wheal" is the precise term that captures the essence of a skin allergy reaction.