Pediatria pre prax 3/2010

Anaphylaxis in children

In recent years there have been several changes on how we look at the anaphylaxis. The spectrum of trigger factors and diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms has changed significantly. The anaphylaxis is regarded as any sudden severe allergic reaction, which potentially can lead to death. Term anaphylactoid reaction is no more recommended to be used. The prevalence of anaphylaxis in last two decades has doubled. Long-term follow-up evaluations in recent years have shown that initial symptoms in patients who died of anaphylaxis have been more frequently associated with respiratory distress than circulatory collapse. Most cases occur outside health care facilities. The major trigger in children is food allergy and the most important risk factor for fatal anaphylaxis is bronchial asthma. Drug of first choice is adrenaline/epinephrine administered intramuscularly. Each patient at risk of anaphylaxis should have a written individual rescue plan and knowledge how to use the first aid medicines.

Keywords: anaphylaxis, food allergy, asthma, adrenaline / epinephrine, childhood.