In Greek, the word “anaphylaxis” means “without guarding.” In simple terms, it is an allergic reaction that happens suddenly, affects various systems in the body, and may be fatal. It doesn’t take much to trigger anaphylaxis. A peanut or a hornet sting can cause it.
Dr Amir H.A. Latiff, a consultant paediatrician, clinical immunologist and allergist, and president of the Malaysian Society of Allergy & Immunology (MSAI) explains further.
What is anaphylaxis?
It is a severe, life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction that may involve an allergy mechanism or a non-allergy cause. Traditionally, anaphylaxis refers to an immediate type of hypersensitivity reaction known as IgE-mediated anaphylaxis. But now it also includes nonallergic anaphylaxis.
How common is it among young Malaysian children?
The actual rate among young children in Malaysia and the world is not known, but it is suggested to be around 0.05-2% overall, and the rate has been increasing over the last two decades. Apparently, this increasing trend is occurring more in the younger population than in adults.
What are some of the things that can cause anaphylaxis?
Food, drugs, insect stings, latex and biologics (medications produced through biological processes involving DNA technology) can cause anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can also be exercise-induced (especially when associated with food). At times, the cause is unknown. But the majority of anaphylaxis in children is caused by food, including cow’s milk, egg white, soya, and wheat, while in adolescents, peanut, tree nuts and seafood (both fish and shellfish).
What happens inside the body during an anaphylactic attack?
Chemicals are released from mast cells (a type of cell found in connective tissues) and basophils (a type of white blood cell), leading to symptoms and signs of an anaphylactic attack. These chemicals which include histamines, leukotrienes, interleukins, chemo-attractants, proteoglycans, and neutral
proteases, not only directly affect organs such as the skin, respiratory, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems, but also cause other reactions, thus worsening the condition.
Are there any early warning signs of an impending anaphylactic attack?
The majority of anaphylaxis involves the skin, which is presented as redness, itchiness and hives (with or without swelling of the deep, soft tissues such as those found in the eyes, mouth or throat). These may be early warning signs. And when another system, typically the respiratory system, or at times the
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