Overview
Systemic anaphylaxis is a severe, rapid-onset allergic reaction that affects multiple organ systems and can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. It occurs when the immune system overreacts to an allergen, releasing a flood of chemicals that cause symptoms such as airway constriction, low blood pressure, and shock.
What is Systemic Anaphylaxis?
Systemic anaphylaxis is an acute, generalized hypersensitivity reaction involving the whole body. It typically develops within minutes to hours after exposure to an allergen such as foods, insect stings, medications, or latex. It requires urgent medical attention due to the risk of airway obstruction and cardiovascular collapse.
Symptoms
- Sudden onset of skin reactions (hives, flushing, itching)
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Rapid or weak pulse
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Dizziness or fainting
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Loss of consciousness in severe cases
Causes
- Food allergies (e.g., peanuts, shellfish)
- Insect stings (bees, wasps)
- Medications (antibiotics, NSAIDs, anesthetics)
- Latex exposure
- Exercise-induced anaphylaxis
- Unknown triggers (idiopathic)
Risk Factors
- Previous anaphylactic reactions
- Asthma or other respiratory diseases
- Allergies to multiple substances
- Certain medications such as beta-blockers that may worsen symptoms
- Delayed treatment of mild allergic reactions
Complications
- Airway obstruction due to swelling
- Cardiovascular collapse and shock
- Respiratory failure
- Death if untreated or treatment is delayed
Prevention
- Identification and strict avoidance of known allergens
- Carrying emergency epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen)
- Wearing medical alert identification
- Allergy testing and immunotherapy under specialist guidance
- Educating patients and caregivers on recognizing early symptoms and prompt treatment
Treatment Options in Korea
South Korea provides advanced emergency and allergy care for systemic anaphylaxis:
- Emergency Care
- Immediate administration of intramuscular epinephrine is the first-line treatment
- Oxygen therapy and airway management in emergency departments
- Intravenous fluids and medications (antihistamines, corticosteroids) to stabilize patients
- Allergy Evaluation
- Referral to allergists for comprehensive allergy testing
- Assessment of triggers and personalized avoidance strategies
- Patient Education
- Training on the use of epinephrine auto-injectors
- Development of emergency action plans
- Follow-up Care
- Regular allergy clinic visits for monitoring and management
- Possible immunotherapy for desensitization to specific allergens
