Anafilassi: riconoscimento e gestione in pronto soccorso pediatrico

Abstract

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening systemic hypersensitivity reaction. Despite the global incidence shows an increasing trend for anaphylaxis, few cases appear to be promptly recognized and correctly managed, showing a significant underuse of epinephrine injections. The most recent state of the art highlights the need for unanimously accepted diagnostic criteria and the essential role of intramuscular epinephrine as the only first-line treatment when a patient is experiencing an acute anaphylactic reaction. On the other hand, evidence emphasize that glucocorticoids have a limited role in the acute management of anaphylaxis and support the use of antihistamines with the only aim to relieve cutaneous symptoms. This review aims to present the latest guidelines concerning management and therapeutic approach to anaphylaxis in the Emergency Department, with a practical slant, underlying the utmost importance of epinephrine administration both in a domestic and hospital setting.