Anaphylactic shock. Diagnosis and treatment

Anaphylactic shock, the most severe manifestation of anaphylaxis, is characterized by three clinical features, namely a precipitous onset, a potentially fatal course in the absence of treatment, and a dramatic response to epinephrine therapy. Clinical manifestations are cutaneous, pulmonary, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and neurologic. Epinephrine should be given immediately. Admission to an intensive care unit for 24-48 h is mandatory because of the risk of recurrent shock. Investigations to detect the offending antigen followed by preventive measures are imperative.