The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology
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J. Allergy Clin. Immunol. · Nov 2001
Emergency department anaphylaxis: A review of 142 patients in a single year.
There are few data on the incidence, clinical features, and management of patients with acute anaphylaxis presenting to the emergency department. We investigated all presentations to one department during the course of a year to improve current awareness of this medical emergency. ⋯ The emergency department anaphylaxis presentation incidence of 1 in 439 cases is greater than previously recognized, though death remains rare. In three fourths of cases, a precipitant was identified, a fact that emphasizes the need for a detailed initial history. Definitive management in the emergency department alone is possible in most cases, provided that the appropriate use of adrenaline and the need for allergy clinic follow-up are appreciated.