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Revisiting the Definition of Anaphylaxis

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Anaphylaxis is a common phenomenon that has been studied for many decades. Despite this, there is still disagreement among organizations regarding the precise definition for anaphylaxis. This article discusses the difference between the proposed definitions of anaphylaxis. Furthermore, the most up-to-date literature on specific subtypes of anaphylaxis is reviewed, and implications for clinical practice are discussed.

Recent Findings

Recent literature on various subtypes of anaphylaxis has been conducted. This has helped clarify guidelines for conditions such as allergy to radiocontrast media, idiopathic anaphylaxis, and food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis. Recent literature has also studied available biomarkers for anaphylaxis and the cost-effectiveness of current standard-of-care prescription of epinephrine autoinjectors.

Summary

Anaphylaxis is an increasingly more frequent phenomenon and remains a hot topic in current research. Much progress has been made in clarifying the definition of anaphylaxis and differentiating between subtypes, but more research is needed to identify a readily available biomarker for anaphylaxis and identify the standard of care for various subtypes of anaphylaxis.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: •   Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pediatrics, Allergy/Immunology, Faculty Office Building, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 49 North Dunlap, Room #296, 38103, Memphis, TN, USA

    Catherine Hammond

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  1. Catherine Hammond
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Correspondence to Catherine Hammond.

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Hammond, C. Revisiting the Definition of Anaphylaxis. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 23, 249–254 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11882-023-01077-y

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