Immunologic Emergencies Flashcards
Allergy & Anaphylaxis
How can a allergic reaction effect the lungs?
Bronchospasm & Vasoconstriction
How can a allergic reaction effect the heart?
decreased output
decreased coronary flow
Define
Allergic reaction
An allergic reaction is the body’s exaggerated immune response to a foreign substance (allergen) that is usually harmless to most people.
reactions can be local or systemic
Define
Anaphylaxis
systemic allergic reaction characterized by rapid onset and involving multiple body systems
How can a allergic reaction effect the blood vessels?
Vasodilation
leakiness
How can a allergic reaction effect the skin?
Pruritus
Urticaria
Edema
Define
Pruritus
itching
Define
Urticaria
Hives
small areas of generalized itching or burning that appear as multiple small, raised areas on the skin
Define
Angioedema
areas of localized
swelling
Name some common allergies
Food
Medication
Plants
Chemicals
Insect bites and stings
Define
Envenomation
When an insect bites or stings, the act of injecting venom is called Envenomation
honeybee, wasp, ant, yellow jacket, or hornet
How do you manage anaphylaxis?
Epinephrine
MDI
Oxygen
Define
Wheal
a raised, swollen, welldefined
area on the skin
more than two-thirds of patients who die of anaphylaxis do so within the
first ___
30 minutes
Define
Stridor
High-pitched breathing sound.
Indicates upper airway narrowing and is a critical finding
Define
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Inflammation of the conjunctiva.
Characterized by red, itchy, watery eyes, often due to airborne allergens.
Anaphylaxis Triggers
Food Allergens
Peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, fish, shellfish
Anaphylaxis Triggers
Insect Stings
Bees, wasps, yellow jackets, hornets
Anaphylaxis Triggers
Medications
Penicillin, NSAIDs, contrast dyes, latex
Anaphylaxis Triggers
Airborne Allergens
Pollen, mold spores, dust mites, animal dander
These commonly cause seasonal allergies and respiratory symptoms like sneezing and runny nose.
Anaphylaxis Triggers
Contact Allergens
Poison ivy, latex, nickel, certain chemicals
Direct skin contact with these substances can lead to localized rashes and itching
What is the treatment for anaphylaxis?
Epinephrine 0.3mg IM auto-injector
Define
Histamines
Chemical substances released by the immune system in allergic reactions that are responsible for many of the symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as vasodilation
Define
Leukotrienes
Chemical substances that contribute to anaphylaxis; released by the immune system in allergic reactions