Anaphylaxis

Question 1

What is anaphylaxis?

Answer 1

Severe, life-threatening, generalised or systemic type 1 hypersensitivity reaction to an allergen

Question 2

What are common allergens to provoke anaphylaxis?

Answer 2

• Food e.g. Nuts
• Drugs e.g. antibiotics
• Venom e.g. wasp sting

Question 3

What is the presentation of anaphylaxis?

Answer 3

!!!Sudden onset!!!

• Angioedema =swollen lips, tongue
• Severe bronchospasm -difficult breathing and talking
• Hypotension and tachy =sock
• Urticaria

Question 4

What are the management steps in anaphylaxis for an adult + >12 child?

Answer 4

1. A-E assessment =recognition
2. Call for help
3. Adrenaline 500microgrames IM (0.5ml 1 in 1000) -repeated every 5 mins if no improvement
4. High flow oxygen 15L no rebreath
5. IV fluid challenge
6. Chlorphenamine 10mg IM
7. Hydrocortisone 200mg IM

Question 5

What are the drugs given in anaphylaxis? CASHO menumonic

Answer 5

C lorphenamine 10mg IM
A drenaline500mcg 0.5ml IM
S albutamol 
H ydrocortisone 10mg IM
O xygen 15L

Question 6

What is the management of a patient following stabilisation after anaphylaxis?

Answer 6

• Observe for 6-12hrs if received emergency treatement

* serum tryptase levels taken if unsure true anaphylaxis