Anaphylaxis: risk factors for recurrence

Area of Science:

• Allergy and Immunology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Limited research exists on anaphylaxis incidence and recurrence rates.
• Understanding these patterns is crucial for public health management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of anaphylaxis in a defined population.
• To identify risk factors associated with anaphylaxis recurrence.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 432 patients with anaphylaxis.
• Follow-up surveys were conducted to gather recurrence data.
• Epidemiological data on incidence and recurrence rates were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The incidence of new anaphylaxis cases was estimated at 9.9 episodes per 100,000 patient-years.
• Recurrence rates were 57 overall and 10 serious episodes per 100 patient-years.
• Food (61%) and stinging insects (20.4%) were primary triggers; wheat/exercise sensitivity posed the highest recurrence risk.
• Adrenaline auto-injector carrying and usage compliance was low (3/4 carried, 1/2 used in emergencies).

Conclusions:

• Approximately 1 in 12 anaphylaxis patients experience recurrence annually, with 1 in 50 requiring hospitalization or adrenaline.
• Poor adherence to carrying and using adrenaline auto-injectors was observed.
• Anaphylaxis patients may develop new triggers or experience psychiatric comorbidities.