Korean J Med.  2015 Oct;89(4):413-417. 10.3904/kjm.2015.89.4.413.

Management of Anaphylaxis

• Nam YH
• Lee SK

• KMID: 2268973
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3904/kjm.2015.89.4.413

Abstract

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening systemic hypersensitivity reaction with a rapid onset. All healthcare professionals should be familiar with its recognition and management. The clinical diagnosis is important. It involves the sudden onset of characteristic symptoms and signs within minutes to hours after exposure to a known or potential trigger, often followed by rapid progression over hours. Symptoms usually involve two or more body systems, including the skin and mucous membranes, and respiratory, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems. Prompt initial basic treatment with intramuscular epinephrine in the mid-anterolateral thigh can be life-saving. Simultaneously, it is important to place the patient in a supine position, call for help when indicated, provide supplemental oxygen, start intravenous fluid, and provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation as required, while monitoring the patient's vital signs and oxygenation status. Antihistamines and glucocorticoids are not initial treatments of choice. For self-management, patients at risk of anaphylaxis should carry epinephrine auto-injectors, have personalized emergency action plans, and follow-up with a physician about preventing anaphylaxis recurrence. Patient and caregiver training and education are essential in the management of anaphylaxis.

Keyword

Anaphylaxis; Epinephrine

MeSH Terms

Anaphylaxis*
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Caregivers
Central Nervous System
Delivery of Health Care
Diagnosis
Education
Emergencies
Epinephrine
Follow-Up Studies
Glucocorticoids
Histamine Antagonists
Humans
Hypersensitivity
Mucous Membrane
Oxygen
Recurrence
Self Care
Skin
Supine Position
Thigh
Vital Signs
Epinephrine
Glucocorticoids
Histamine Antagonists
Oxygen