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Fatal Anaphylaxis: Epidemiology and Risk Factors

  • Autoimmunity (TK Tarrant, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

To provide clinicians with an understanding of risk factors associated with fatal anaphylaxis, and to promote individualized management plans with patients based upon key aspects of their clinical history.

Recent Findings

While anaphylaxis can affect a significant percentage of the general population, death from anaphylaxis remains a rare outcome. The presence of asthma and peanut or tree nut allergy is associated with higher risk for severe or fatal anaphylaxis from foods. Specific triggers (medications, venom), underlying comorbid conditions, age, and use of some medications can also impact risk and warrant different counseling and management strategies.

Summary

Anaphylaxis is a rapidly progressive systemic reaction with multiple different causes and encompasses a wide degree of severity in clinical presentation and risk for future episodes. Individualized management, discussion of risk, and shared decision making should occur with each patient and in consideration of their personal risk factors.

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Abbreviations

EIA:

Exercise-induced anaphylaxis

ICD-10:

International Classification of Diseases

IgE:

Immunoglobulin E

NMBAs:

Neuromuscular blocking agents

NSAIDs:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

SDM:

Shared decision making

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Allergy and Immunology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital and The Ohio State University College of Medicine, 700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA

    Irene Mikhail, David R. Stukus & Benjamin T. Prince

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  1. Irene Mikhail
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  2. David R. Stukus
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Correspondence to David R. Stukus.

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Mikhail, I., Stukus, D.R. & Prince, B.T. Fatal Anaphylaxis: Epidemiology and Risk Factors. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 21, 28 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11882-021-01006-x

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