Term | Definition |
Immune Response | Foreign bodies (antigens) can be absorbed, ingested,
injected, or inhaled.
Immune system detects antigens and deploys antibodies to
fight them. |
Allergic Reaction | Some antigens (allergens) stimulate an allergic reaction.
An allergic reaction is an excessive immune response to an
allergen. |
Allergic Reaction | Allergic reactions can be local or systemic.
Symptoms include itching, watery eyes, runny nose, etc. |
Sensitization | Patients can develop sensitivity to a substance
that did not previously cause a reaction, such as latex.
Following sensitization, the severity of reactions can get
progressively worse each time. |
Anaphylaxis (also known as anaphylactic reaction or
anaphylactic shock) | Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening form of allergic
reaction. |
Anaphylaxis | Anaphylaxis is always systemic and impairs the airway,
respiratory, and cardiovascular systems. Anaphylaxis causes
upper- and lower-airway swelling, bronchoconstriction,
vasodilation, hypotension, capillary permeability (leakage),
and increased mucus production. |
CAUSES OF ANAPHYLAXIS | Medications, such as antibiotics, aspirin, nonsteroidal antiĀ
inflammatory (NSAID) medications, vitamins
Environmental triggers, such as chemicals and pollens
Foods, including peanut products and derivatives, shellfish,
eggs |
CAUSES OF ANAPHYLAXIS | Bites and stings from wasps, bees, ants, etc.
Latex (found in many medical supplies) |
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS | Central nervous system: restlessness, anxious, irritable
Skin: flushed, hives, swelling
Respiratory: dyspnea, tachypnea, wheezing, stridor
Cardiovascular: tachypnea, hypotension |
MANAGEMENT | Consider epinephrine per medical direction and local protocol.
It is essential to understand the impact of vasodilation on
anaphylaxis. During anaphylaxis, systemic vasodilation
(enlargement of blood vessels) leads to hypotension and
distributive shock. It also contributes to capillary permeability
(leakage) and pulmonary edema. |
MANAGEMENT | Remember:
Vasodilation = enlargement of blood vessels
Anaphylaxis = massive vasodilation!
Massive vasodilation = distributive shock! |