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Anaphylaxis remains one of the most severe manifestations of allergic reactions, posing a significant challenge for both patients and healthcare providers. Rapid in onset and potentially fatal, it requires immediate medical intervention and poses complexities in diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management. This complexity extends to multiple domains, encompassing its definition, prevalence, underlying causes (aetiology), and mechanisms of action (pathogenesis). Given its critical nature, it is vital for clinicians, especially those in primary care settings, to have a comprehensive understanding of these key aspects to diagnose, manage, and potentially prevent future episodes of anaphylaxis effectively.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Anaphylaxis is a rapidly evolving, severe allergic reaction that affects multiple systems in the body. It is considered a medical emergency and has the potential to be fatal. The reaction often involves the skin, respiratory, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal systems. Clinical criteria are often used to diagnose anaphylaxis and may involve symptoms like generalized urticaria, respiratory compromise, and reduced blood pressure |
| Prevalence | • The estimated prevalence in the general population is as high as 2%, showing signs of an increasing trend. • Despite the alarming prevalence, the case fatality rate remains extremely low, less than 0.5% among those presenting to emergency departments or requiring... |
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