What medical specialty focuses on allergies and abnormal reactions to substances?

Allergology is the medical specialty that specifically concentrates on the diagnosis and treatment of allergies and abnormal reactions to substances. This includes a wide range of conditions such as hay fever, asthma, and food allergies, where patients have hypersensitive responses to particular allergens. Allergologists conduct tests to identify triggering substances and develop treatment plans that may include medication, immunotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments to manage patients' allergy symptoms effectively.

While immunology also plays a role in understanding allergic reactions through the immune system's response, it has a broader focus that includes all aspects of the immune system beyond just allergic reactions. Dermatology deals with skin-related issues, and endocrinology focuses on hormonal disorders, neither of which specifically addresses allergies and hypersensitivity reactions.