Anaphylaxis.

Abstract

Systemic anaphylaxis results from the sudden release of mediators from a variety of inflammatory cells. Most reactions are due to insect stings, food allergy, immunotherapy injections, or pharmaceutical products. Anaphylaxis is easily recognized in most cases, although persons found unresponsive or who exhibit hypotension without urticaria or cutaneous angioedema present special diagnostic problems. Most reactions respond promptly to aggressive therapy, although fatalities occasionally occur. Optimal long-term care of patients with anaphylaxis involves accurate identification of triggering agents, education regarding allergen avoidance, and self-administration of epinephrine in case of future reactions.