ABSTRACT
Anaphylaxis is an acute, Type 1 hypersensitivity reaction caused by antigens binding to IgE immunoglobulin on mast cells and causing them to degranulate. These mast cells release ‘anaphylatoxins’, mainly histamine, prostaglandins and leukotrienes. It is these mediators that are responsible for the physiological effects of anaphylaxis – vasodilatation, increased capillary permeability and smooth muscle constriction.
