Anaphylaxis

Abstract

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening systemic hypersensitivity reaction that usually develops within one to two hours after exposure to an allergen. The most common symptoms of anaphylaxis are shortness of breath, urticarial rash, and swelling of the mucosa. In one-fifth of the cases, the cause of anaphylaxis cannot be found, but it is mostly due to drug intake, insect bites, and foods. Serious anaphylactoid reactions, which can be fatal, may occur in patients with asthma, advanced age, cardiovascular disease, mast cell disorders, and allergic reactions due to drug intake. Recognition of anaphylaxis and prompt initiation of treatment are of critical importance. In the acute treatment of anaphylaxis, intramuscular epinephrine is administered first, and airway, respiratory, and circulatory support is provided. The patient is observed for up to 4-12 hours for biphasic reactions that may develop afterwards. After an anaphylactic reaction, an emergency action plan should be developed for the patient. The patient should be directed to an allergist, and the patient should be educated about the elimination of the allergic agent and the use of an epinephrine auto-injector. The quality of the acute and long-term management of anaphylaxis is effective in whether patients experience good or bad outcomes.