Occurrence of multiphasic anaphylaxis during a transcontinental air flight

Am J Emerg Med. 1999 Nov;17(7):695-6. doi: 10.1016/s0735-6757(99)90163-8.

Abstract

Anaphylaxis, a multisystem allergic reaction, represents a true medical emergency. Anaphylaxis is characterized by a combination of the following: urticaria, angioedema, distributive shock, and respiratory failure. Most often, the patient is rapidly treated with prompt resolution of the anaphylaxis in either the out-of-hospital or emergency department (ED) setting. Infrequently, recurrent, or multiphasic, anaphylaxis is encountered, involving a reappearance of allergic phenomena after complete resolution of the original reaction. Recurrence may involve nuisance-level issues such as urticaria; alternatively, multiphasic reactions may be characterized by cardiovascular collapse and/or respiratory compromise. Initially aggressive pharmacological therapy followed by prolonged observation in either the ED or the in-hospital setting is strongly recommended to monitor for potential recurrence.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anaphylaxis / diagnosis
  • Anaphylaxis / drug therapy*
  • Anaphylaxis / etiology*
  • Anaphylaxis / physiopathology
  • Aviation*
  • Emergency Treatment / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Peanut Oil
  • Plant Oils / adverse effects*
  • Recurrence
  • Self Administration
  • Travel*

Substances

  • Peanut Oil
  • Plant Oils