Which type of toxin is known to cause allergic responses or sensitization?

The identification of sensitizers as the type of toxin known to cause allergic responses or sensitization is accurate and reflects a fundamental concept in toxicology. Sensitizers are substances that, after an initial exposure, can lead to an allergic reaction upon subsequent exposures. This sensitization process occurs when the immune system becomes overly reactive to the substance, leading to conditions such as contact dermatitis or asthma.

In contrast, corrosives typically cause damage to tissues upon contact without necessarily causing an allergic response. Nephrotoxins specifically target the kidneys and can lead to toxic effects in that organ. Irritants primarily cause localized inflammation or discomfort to the skin, eyes, or respiratory tract, but do not elicit the immune-mediated response characteristic of sensitizers. Recognizing the unique response elicited by sensitizers helps in understanding how various chemicals interact with biological systems and is essential for proper safety assessments and interventions.