Anaphylaxis. A preventable emergency.

J Corren; A L Schocket

doi:10.1080/00325481.1990.11704635

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Anaphylaxis. A preventable emergency.

J Corren·A L Schocket

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Abstract

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction that may be caused by a variety of agents. Diagnosis depends on the presence of a constellation of symptoms (eg, laryngeal edema, bronchospasm, hypotension, urticaria). The goal of therapy is maintenance of an effective airway, respiratory function, and circulation. Subcutaneous epinephrine, H1 and H2 antihistamines, and a prolonged period of observation (at least 8 hours) should be used in all patients. After the acute attack has been managed, a thorough investigation of possible causes should be made and the patient referred to a specialist, if indicated. Desensitization therapy, premedication before high-risk exposures, and careful avoidance of known causative agents are effective preventive measures. Direction in self-administration of epinephrine is critical in these patients and may prove lifesaving.

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Acute Disease Anaphylaxis Combined Modality Therapy Diagnosis, Differential Epinephrine Humans Self Administration Journal Article Review

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J Corren, A L Schocket. 1990. Anaphylaxis. A preventable emergency.. https://doi.org/10.1080/00325481.1990.11704635

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