Anaphylaxis

Question 1

What is anaphylaxis?

Answer 1

Serious allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and may cause death

Question 2

Who is at risk of anaphylaxis?

Answer 2

Acute onset of an illness
Symptoms involving 2 or more organ systems
Reduced BP following exposure to a known allergen

Question 3

What are the most frequent signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis ?

Answer 3

Urticaria/angioedema- most common
Upper airway edema
Dyspnea/wheeze
Flush

Question 4

What drug does not block anaphylaxis ?

Answer 4

Diphenhydramine

Question 5

What are some triggers of anaphylaxis ?

Answer 5

Food- most common
Drugs
Insects

Question 6

Who are in the high risk group for latex allergy?

Answer 6

Rubber industry workers
Healthcare workers
Children with spina bifid
Children with multiple surgeries

Question 7

What are the products containing latex that cause common reactions ?

Answer 7

Gloves especially powdered
Balloons
Condoms
Dental dams

Question 8

What are some food allergies that are correlated to latex allergy?

Answer 8

Avocado
Banana
Celery
Chestnut
Kiwi
Melon
Passion fruit

Question 9

What are the different phases of anaphylaxis ?

Answer 9

Uniphasic
Biphasic- symptoms recur up to 8 hours later without further exposure to the trigger
Protracted-worse one: symptoms worsened despite treatment

Question 10

How to diagnose anaphylaxis?

Answer 10

Complete and accurate medical/allergy history
Skin test/ specific IgE tests
Serum tryptase measured within 3 hours

Question 11

What is the treatment for anaphylaxis?

Answer 11

When in doubt inject epinephrine
Speed is critical
Assess airway, breathing, circulation

Question 12

What is the dose of epinephrine to use?

Answer 12

1:1000 dilution, 0.3 mL for adults
0.01/mg/kg in children
Many patients require more than a single injection

Question 13

What are some secondary measures to take in case of anaphylaxis ?

Answer 13

Place patient in recumbent position and elevate legs
Maintain airway
Oxygen, 6-8 liters/minute
Normal saline IV