ABSTRACT
Anaphylaxis is an acute, potentially life-threatening, generalized, hypersensitivity reaction that is characterized by a rapid onset of breathing and/or circulatory problems. This is usually associated with skin or mucosal changes, resulting from the sudden release of mediators derived from mast cells and basophils. The rate of occurrence of anaphylaxis is unknown due to under-recognition by patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals or due to under-reporting. Sudden onset of symptoms and signs within minutes to hours after exposure to a known or potential trigger, followed by rapid progression should help in diagnosing anaphylaxis. Cutaneous involvement may not be seen in 20% of the cases, making the diagnosis difficult. A detailed understanding of predisposing and augmenting factors could lead to the development of prophylactic and therapeutic approaches on an individual patient-to-patient basis.
