Anaphylaxis

Acute anaphylaxis has been described as ‘a serious allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and may cause death’. It is becoming more common and is underdiagnosed. Even when anaphylaxis is recognized, it tends to be undertreated. In view of these factors, all clinical staff should maintain awareness of it in order to recognize, assess and manage it optimally. In this article we have concentrated equally on treatment and recognition with assessment. The patient who exhibits the full range of manifestations of anaphylaxis may be readily diagnosed, but many present with only one or two of the features, thereby increasing diagnostic uncertainty and leading to delays in definitive treatment with adrenaline (epinephrine).