Epidemiology of anaphylaxis in the United States

MJ Matasar, AI Neugut - Current allergy and asthma reports, 2003 - Springer
MJ Matasar, AI Neugut
Current allergy and asthma reports, 2003Springer
Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by a syndrome of
dermatologic and systemic signs and symptoms, at times including cardiovascular collapse
from distributive shock. Although it is recognized that the incidence of anaphylaxis is
increasing, the extent of its prevalence, both from individual causes and in toto, remains
unclear. Common causes include pharmacologic agents, such as antibiotics and
radiocontrast media, as well as foods, insect stings, and latex exposure. The available …
Abstract
Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by a syndrome of dermatologic and systemic signs and symptoms, at times including cardiovascular collapse from distributive shock. Although it is recognized that the incidence of anaphylaxis is increasing, the extent of its prevalence, both from individual causes and in toto, remains unclear. Common causes include pharmacologic agents, such as antibiotics and radiocontrast media, as well as foods, insect stings, and latex exposure. The available literature suffers from methodologic shortcomings, limiting the accuracy of estimated prevalence. However, current data suggest that there are approximately 1500 annual deaths from anaphylaxis, and between 2.8 million and 42.7 million Americans are at risk of experiencing an episode of anaphylaxis during their lives.
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