Book excerpt: History of Immunotoxicology offers the first book-length exploration of the development and importance of the field of immunotoxicology. Toxicology is evolving with the identification of new toxic hazards and the marketing of new chemicals. As preventive measures are implemented to reduce risks, including banning of chemicals or applications of one given chemical, current toxicologists may not be aware of the actual toxicity potential of chemicals when marketing or used in the past. Knowledge of what has occurred before can help to give context and understanding of current and future debates. Although immunotoxicology is one of the youngest areas of toxicology – its origin dates back to approximately half a century – a number of significant adverse effects and safety issues have been described, which deserve a historical perspective. History of Immunotoxicology describes the adverse health effects involving the immune system, hypersensitivity and autoimmunity. It also explores new avenues of research and immunotoxicity evaluation, as well as regulatory aspects of immunotoxicology, and the withdrawal/banning from the market of several approved drugs and chemicals due to their immunotoxic effects. Clinical manifestations of immunotoxicity, such as anaphylaxis, opportunistic infections, lymphomas, cytokine storm, and immunotherapy will be addressed. Finally, the book considers how the recent past can provide insights on the future practice of immunotoxicology. This book will be of interest to students and researchers in government, industry, and academia who have an interest in immunotoxicology. Examines the development of immunotoxicology Provides context to current debates about actual toxicity potential of chemicals Covers major developments and areas of immunotoxicology