ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the definition, clinical criteria, epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis and the management of anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is an acute systemic allergic reaction that varies in severity and may be rapidly progressive and can be life threatening. The clinical presentation of anaphylaxis varies, and there are many potential signs and symptoms that can occur in any combination, with the potential to involve the skin and mucosa, respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular system. Food-allergy in children seems to account for marked increases in anaphylaxis and anaphylaxis related hospitalizations, and this may explain the rise in anaphylaxis rates in children. Death due to anaphylaxis is usually secondary to upper or lower airway obstruction or cardiovascular collapse. Atopy is a risk factor for anaphylaxis in general and specifically for anaphylaxis related to latex, ingested antigens, exercise, radiographic contrast media, as well as idiopathic events. Anaphylaxis can be immunologic or non-immunologic.
