Anaphylaxis Flashcards
Common causes
Food (most common cause in children)
Drugs
Venom
Airway problems
Swelling of the throat and tongue
Hoarse voice and stridor
Breathing problems
Respiratory wheeze
Dyspnoea
Circulation problems
Hypotension
Tachycardia
Anaphylaxis definition
Sudden onset and rapid progression of symptoms
Airway and/or breathing and/or circulation problems
Without ABC problems its technically not anaphylaxis
Skin/ mucosal changes
Generalised pruritis
Widespread erythematous or urticarial rash
Management
IM adrenaline
Adrenaline <6 month old
100-150micrograms
Adrenaline 6months-6years
150micrograms
Adrenaline 6-12years
300micrograms
Adrenaline adult and child >12 years
500micrograms
Refractory anaphylaxis
Respiratory and/or cardiovascular problems persist despite 2 doses of IM adrenaline
IV fluids should be given for shock
Management following stabilisation
Non-sedating oral antihistamines particularly if persisting skin problems
Serum tryptase remain elevated up to 12 hours following acute episode
New diagnosis of anaphylaxis need referral to specialist allergy clinic
Types of discharge
Fast-track
Minimum 6 hours after symptom resolution
Minimum 12 hours after symptom resolution
Fast-track discharge
Good response to single dose of adrenaline
Complete resolution of symptoms
Given adrenaline auto-injector and trained how to use it
Adequate supervision following discharge