title: Anaphylaxis. A preventable emergency.
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.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, National Jewish Center for Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, Denver, CO 80206.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Corren
authors.forename: A L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Schocket
mesh_terms: D000208:Acute Disease; D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004837:Epinephrine / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D012646:Self Administration
chemical_list: D004837:Epinephrine