Anaphylaxis is a systemic, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that affects up to 1 in 20 people throughout their lives. Reaction severity varies based on allergen dose, exposure, and patient factors. A joint task force, including members of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, developed practice parameters focused on important elements of anaphylaxis diagnosis and treatment.

DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT

Diagnosis

Although anaphylaxis is diagnosed clinically, there are no pathognomonic symptoms, examination findings, or laboratory findings. World Allergy Organization diagnostic criteria are outlined in Table 1. Although these criteria require rapid symptom onset within minutes to hours, some reactions, especially to galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal) or immunotherapy, can occur up to 10 hours after exposure. Alpha-gal allergy, also called red meat tick bite allergy, is a reaction to ingesting red meat that occurs after a tick bite. Although rare, alpha-gal allergy should be considered in patients with recurrent idiopathic anaphylaxis and a possible tick bite.