Anaphylaxis: mechanisms, manifestations, and management

Although systemic anaphylactic reactions are relatively uncommon, the podiatric physician must be familiar with the precipitating causes, clinical picture, and emergency management. The authors discuss the pathophysiology of anaphylaxis and the typical agents that trigger the response. The clinical features are presented, along with guidelines in establishing a differential diagnosis. Therapeutic measures, aimed at stabilizing the patient and curtailing the extent of the reaction, are also addressed.