Anaphylaxis

IM adrenaline, ABC, fluid

Red flags
  • Stridor, upper airway swelling
  • Persistent hypotension
  • Biphasic reaction risk

First steps

  • Remove trigger
  • Adrenaline 0.5 mg IM (anterolateral thigh) — repeat q5 min
  • Lie flat with legs raised (sit up if resp distress)
  • High-flow O₂
  • IV crystalloid 500-1000 mL

Key investigations

  • Serum tryptase at 1-2 h and 24 h
  • Consider ABG if resp compromise

Differentials

  • Vasovagal
  • Panic attack
  • Acute severe asthma
  • ACE-i angioedema

Initial management

  • Second-line: chlorphenamine 10 mg IV, hydrocortisone 200 mg IV, nebulised salbutamol/ipratropium
  • Refractory: adrenaline infusion 0.05-1 mcg/kg/min, glucagon if on β-blocker
  • Observe ≥6 h (biphasic risk)

Referral

  • Allergist follow-up
  • EpiPen × 2 + written action plan on discharge
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WardRound

WardRound

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