電子期刊 |
ISSN:1684-193X
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Updated
August 2004
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Contents:
Volume 2, Supplement 2; April, 2004 |
Recognition and Management of Anaphylactic Shock |
Leon-Yum Phoon, MD; Chee-Fah Chong, MD; Tzong-Luen Wang, MD, PhD
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Abstract ---Anaphylactic shock is medical emergency characterized by circulatory collapse resulted from
severe acute allergic reactions, namely anaphylaxis and anaphylactoid reaction. Anaphylaxis is an acute,
systemic, IgE-mediated, immediate hypersensitivity reaction caused by the release of mediators by
mast cells and basophils after exposure to antigens. A diversity of antigens could trigger anaphylaxis
and the most common causes are medications, insect stings and foods. Whereas anaphylactoid
reaction is IgE-independent and contrast media is the widely known triggering agent. Anaphlaxis is
a clinical diagnosis with a combinations of symptoms and signs that include weakness, dizziness,
flushing, angioedema, urticaria of the skin, congestion, and sneezing. More severe symptoms
include upper respiratory tract obstruction, hypotension, vascular collapse associated with angioedema
and urticaria, gastrointestinal distress, cardiovascular arrhythmias, and arrest. Prompt administration
of epinephrine is critical for the success in the treatment of acute anaphylaxis. H1 and H2 antihistamines,
corticosteroids and appropriate fluid supplement should be given. Infusion of inotropic agents may
be required. When the symptoms subside, observation in the emergency department before
discharge is prudent.
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Key words---Anaphylactic Shock; Anaphylaxis; Severe Allergic Reaction |
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