Anaphylaxis: epidemiology, aetiology and relevance for the clinic

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Anaphylaxis is responsible for considerable morbidity and may in some cases prove fatal.

Areas covered: This review summarises the findings from recent studies on the epidemiology and aetiology of anaphylaxis and draws on the insights from this work and recent international guidelines to consider the implications for clinical care. Acute management of anaphylaxis is centred on early recognition, treatment with adrenaline (epinephrine) and other essential life-support measures. The importance of longer-term care of patients with a history of or at risk of anaphylaxis are also considered with a view to minimising the risk of further reactions. Tailored individual anaphylaxis management plans should be a routine component of this longer-term care with provision of adrenaline auto-injectors to those at risk of further episodes of anaphylaxis. More generally, there is a need to ensure that there are standard protocols in place to ensure that risks of triggering anaphylaxis are minimised and appropriate acute and long-term care are provided if reactions occur.

Expert commentary: It is important to be aware that anaphylaxis may occur in patients of any age, sex or ethnicity. Early recognition and prompt treatment with adrenaline are potentially life-saving. Careful assessment of risk and appropriate long-term management are key to improving long-term outcomes in those at risk of repeat episodes of anaphylaxis.

KEYWORDS:

• Adrenaline
• allergy
• anaphylaxis
• hypersensitivity
• guidelines
• incidence
• self-management

Declaration of interest

S Dhami declares involvement in the development of the EAACI Anaphylaxis systematic review and guidelines. A Sheikh declares involvement in the EAACI anaphylaxis systematic reviews and guideline development and involvement in the UK Resuscitation council anaphylaxis guidelines development. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

Additional information

Funding

No funding to declare.