Allergies and anaphylaxis

Death or permanent disability from anaphylaxis in anaesthesia may be avoidable if the reaction is recognised early and managed optimally.

• Consider anaphylaxis if a patient develops hypotension or bronchospasm
• Initial management follows the ABC approach. Adrenaline is most effective and should be given as early as possible.
• It is the anaesthetist’s responsibility to ensure the patient is referred for investigation.
• Serum mast cell tryptase levels may help the retrospective diagnosis of anaphylaxis: appropriate blood samples should be sent for analysis.
• Optimal investigation of suspected reactions is more likely with the collaboration of specialist allergists and anaesthetists.
• Following specialist investigation, report cases to the MHRA
• All Departments of Anaesthesia should identify a Consultant Anaesthetist who is Clinical Lead for anaesthetic anaphylaxis.
• A list of allergy centres can be downloaded here »