The therapy of anaphylactic shock

Anaphylaxis is an acute, often life-threatening systemic reaction to mediators released by basophils and mast cells. Histamine, leukotrienes, prostaglandins, and other mediators are responsible for complex and varied reactions in man. Serious cardiovascular or pulmonary involvement can lead to death within minutes. Therapy depends on prompt recognition of the disease and rapid administration of epinephrine. Even in ideal clinical settings, response to therapy may be slow and a long resuscitation necessary. Antihistamines, glucocorticoids, intravascular volume expansion, sympathomimetics, bronchodilators, and controlled ventilation all may be necessary. Taking careful allergy histories; using enteral routes for drug administration when possible; observing patients, who have received injections for at least 20 minutes; and rapidly treating patients with epinephrine are the main means of reducing the incidence and mortality of this disease.