Anesthetic anaphylactic shock in an emergency cesarean section: a case report

Neuraxial anesthesia is the gold standard for cesarean sections, but general anesthesia is sometimes necessary, especially in emergency cases. Anaphylactic shock due to succinylcholine, a commonly used neuromuscular blocking agent, is rare but life-threatening.

A 42-year-old woman with severe preeclampsia and a history of intracranial vascular malformations underwent an emergency cesarean section. Induction with succinylcholine triggered an anaphylactic shock. Immediate intervention with epinephrine and corticosteroids stabilized the patient, allowing the safe delivery of a live infant.

This case highlights the need for rapid identification and management of anaphylactic shock during emergency cesarean sections under general anesthesia, especially in high-risk patients with complex medical histories.