Anaphylaxis

Preview

A person usually does not know that he or she is allergic to penicillin, insect venom, or a certain food until symptoms suddenly occur. An experienced physician can recognize the reaction and treat it before it becomes a threat to life. The authors review common features of anaphylaxis, differential diagnosis, and treatment of the acute attack. They emphasize prevention of repeated exposure to the inciting agent, because the patient is at greater risk of anaphylaxis after the first reaction.