Anaphylaxis Attended in Emergency Departments: a Reliable Picture of Real-world Anaphylaxis

AbstractPurpose of reviewThe aim of this document is to review the epidemiology of anaphylaxis in the emergency departments (EDs) (burden and temporal trends), the generally deficient management of anaphylaxis in the ED, and the measures and interventions tested in different settings to improve management of anaphylaxis in the ED.Recent findingsThe population attended for anaphylaxis episodes is low (0.009 to 0.4%). Recent studies report an increase in anaphylaxis episodes attended in the ED. Discordance has been observed between the diagnosis of anaphylaxis in the ED and the diagnosis confirmed in allergy units; this can reach 45%. Management of anaphylaxis is not consistent with international guidelines, and the lack of adherence to guidelines affects the use of epinephrine in the ED, prescription of epinephrine autoinjectors, initial advice on avoidance, and referral to an allergist. Measures to improve the management of anaphylaxis have proven effective.SummaryThe low burden of anaphylaxis in the ED and the disappointing landscape of management of this syndrome in the ED should drive strategies aimed at providing staff with key concepts and measures that enable them to manage episodes of anaphylaxis effectively.
Source: Current Treatment Options in Allergy - Category: Allergy & Immunology Source Type: research