[70] Anaphylaxis Flashcards
What is anaphylaxis?
A severe, life-threatening, generalised or systemic hypersensitivity reaction
Is anaphylaxis common?
No, it’s actually rare
Why is anaphylaxis often fatal?
Rapid onset of symptoms and laryngeal oedema
In what age group do most cases of anaphylaxis occur?
Under 5’s
Why do most cases of anaphylaxis occur in under 5’s?
This is when food allergy is most prevalent
When do most cases of fatal anaphylaxis occur?
In adolescents
What is the most common cause of fatal anaphylaxis?
Nut allergy
What is responsible for the allergic reaction in anaphylaxis?
Release of inflammatory mediators and cytokines from mast cells and basophils
What are the two mechanisms that can underly anaphylaxis?
- Immunological mechanism
- Non-immunological mechanism
What is the initial step in the immunological mechanism of anaphylaxis?
IgE binds to antigens forming a complex that activates receptors on mast cells and basophils
What happens as a result of activation of mast cell and basophil receptors?
There is a release of inflammatory mediators
Give an example of an inflammatory mediator involved in anaphylaxis
Histamine
What are the effects of the inflammatory mediators released by mast cells and basophils?
- Increased contraction of bronchial smooth muscle
- Vasodilation
- Blood vessel leakage
- Heart muscle depression
What does the non-immunological mechanism involve?
Substances directly causing degranulation of mast cells and basophils
What percentage of anaphylaxis in children is caused by food allergy?
85%