Korean J Asthma Allergy Clin Immunol.  2008 Dec;28(4):298-304.

Anaphylaxis; 10 Years' Experience at a University Hospital in Suwon

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Anaphylaxis is a systemic hypersensitivity reaction consisting of various etiologies and clinical features. In Korea, reports regarding anaphylaxis are very few.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the general characteristics and clinical features of anaphylaxis, especially with regard to the severity of it. METHOD: A retrospective study was conducted in inpatients, outpatients and patients encountered at the emergency department at the Ajou University Hospital during 1997~2008. The medical records of a total of 158 patients who met diagnostic criteria for anaphylaxis were reviewed. RESULT: Drugs (51.2%) was the most common cause of anaphylaxis followed by insect stings (25.3%), foods (10.8%) and exercise (6.3%) in our hospital. The common manifestations were dyspnea (70.3%), urticaria (57.6%), dizziness (48.1%) and hypotension (46.2%). There were 65 patients (41.1%) with moderate anaphylaxis and 93 patients (58.9%) with severe anaphylaxis. The patients with older age or underlying cardiovascular disease had more severe anaphylaxis (P<0.05, respectively). Although there were no significant correlation between the severity and etiology of anaphylaxis, some drugs such as antibiotics, NSAIDs, and radiocontrast media tended to develop severe anaphylaxis.
CONCLUSION
We confirmed that drugs, insect stings, foods, and exercise are the major causes of anaphylaxis. In addition, the patients with older age or a cardiovascular disease had a tendency to develop severe anaphylaxis.

MeSH Terms

Anaphylaxis
Anti-Bacterial Agents
Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
Cardiovascular Diseases
Contrast Media
Dizziness
Dyspnea
Emergencies
Humans
Hypersensitivity
Hypotension
Inpatients
Insect Bites and Stings
Korea
Medical Records
Outpatients
Retrospective Studies
Urticaria
Anti-Bacterial Agents
Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
Contrast Media