Biological terrorism and the allergist's office practice.

Area of Science:

• Allergy and Immunology
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Bioterrorism Preparedness

Background:

• The 2001 anthrax threat led to increased patient visits for allergy practices.
• Patients presented with symptoms attributed to anthrax exposure, often due to underlying allergic conditions and anxiety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a structured approach for allergists managing outpatients potentially exposed to bioterrorist agents.
• To differentiate between allergic disease exacerbations and symptoms of biological threats.

Main Methods:

• Review of patient visits during the anthrax outbreak.
• Discussion of 10 precepts for managing biological casualties.
• Comparison of common allergy symptoms with signs of bioterrorism agents.

Main Results:

• Patient symptoms were primarily due to exacerbated allergic disease and anxiety, not actual anthrax infection.
• A table comparing common allergic conditions with bioterrorism threats was developed.

Conclusions:

• Allergists must be prepared to differentiate between allergic reactions and bioterrorism symptoms.
• A systematic approach is crucial for managing patients with suspected biological agent exposure.