Pediatria pre prax 1/2017

Anaphylaxis in children – a practial recommendation

Anaphylaxis is an acute, potentially life-threatening syndrome with multisystemic manifestations due to the rapid release of proinflammatory mediators. In children, foods can be a significant trigger for anaphylaxis (milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, fish and others). Patients experiencing anaphylaxis can present with cutaneous, respiratory, cardiovascular or gastrointestinal manifestations. Epinephrine given intramusculary remains the mainstay of treatment for this condition. Other second or third-line therapies, such as inhaled beta-2 agonists, H1 and H2 receptor antagonists and corticosteroids, may play a role in resolving respiratory and cutaneous signs and symptoms. Biphasic reactions may occur during the resolution phase of symptoms and, thus, all patients should be observed before discharge from hospital. On discharge, all patients should be prescribed epinephrine autoinjectors, and referred to an allergist for further evaluation and education.

Keywords: anaphylaxis, epinephrine