Anaphylaxis

Question 1

Effects of Adrenaline in Anaphylaxis

Answer 1

Increase in BP (α adrenergic activity)
Reversal of vasodilation (α adrenergic activity)
Reduces urticaria & angiodema by vasoconstriction (α adrenergic activity)
Bronchodilation (β2 adrenergic activity on bronchial smooth muscle)
Increased cardiac contractility - force and volume thus increase HR and BP (β1 activity)
Prevents additional mast cell degranulation (β activity)

Question 2

Criteria for Anaphylaxis

Answer 2

1: acute onset with skin &/or mucosal involvement + respiratory compromise OR ↓ in BP or associated sx
2: ≥2 of the following - skin &/or mucuosal involvement, respiratory compromise, ↓BP or associated sx, persistent GI sx
3: decreased BP after exposure to a known allergen for that patient