Anaphylaxis in Turkish children: a multi-centre, retrospective, case study

Ibuprofen and Other Arylpropionics: The Relevance in Immediate Hypersensitivity Drug Reactions

BACKGROUND

Ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is the most frequent medication to be involved in hypersensitivity drug reactions (HDRs). Other analgesic/anti-inflammatory drugs in the arylpropionic group are also relevant, albeit to a lesser extent. Ibuprofen is widely consumed by people of all ages, both on medical prescription and over the counter; moreover, it is an organic contaminant of surface waters and foods. While numerous drugs cause HDR, ibuprofen's underlying mechanisms are more intricate and involve both specific immunological and non-immunological mediated reactions.

SUMMARY

we concentrate on immediate responses, including urticaria with or without angioedema, anaphylaxis, and angioedema, classifying reactions according to whether they are caused by single or multiple NSAIDs and based on the mechanisms at play. Both groups may experience anaphylaxis, defined as an immediate, severe systemic reaction involving at least two organs, though the frequency and severity can vary. Following this classification, more clinical manifestations can be identified. Diagnosis is partly based on a detailed clinical history, including information about ibuprofen and/or other arylpropionic derivatives involved, the interval between drug intake and symptoms onset, clinical manifestations, number of episodes, and the patient's tolerance or response to other medications - mainly non-chemically related NSAID - both before and after reactions to ibuprofen and/or other arylpropionic drugs. A drug provocation test is frequently necessary to make a diagnosis.

KEY MESSAGE

Because ibuprofen is the most widely prescribed NSAID, it is reasonable to assume its role as the leading cause of HDR will only become more important.

Anaphylaxis: A 2023 practice parameter update

This practice parameter update focuses on 7 areas in which there are new evidence and new recommendations. Diagnostic criteria for anaphylaxis have been revised, and patterns of anaphylaxis are defined. Measurement of serum tryptase is important for diagnosis of anaphylaxis and to identify underlying mast cell disorders. In infants and toddlers, age-specific symptoms may differ from older children and adults, patient age is not correlated with reaction severity, and anaphylaxis is unlikely to be the initial reaction to an allergen on first exposure. Different community settings for anaphylaxis require specific measures for prevention and treatment of anaphylaxis. Optimal prescribing and use of epinephrine autoinjector devices require specific counseling and training of patients and caregivers, including when and how to administer the epinephrine autoinjector and whether and when to call 911. If epinephrine is used promptly, immediate activation of emergency medical services may not be required if the patient experiences a prompt, complete, and durable response. For most medical indications, the risk of stopping or changing beta-blocker or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor medication may exceed the risk of more severe anaphylaxis if the medication is continued, especially in patients with insect sting anaphylaxis. Evaluation for mastocytosis, including a bone marrow biopsy, should be considered for adult patients with severe insect sting anaphylaxis or recurrent idiopathic anaphylaxis. After perioperative anaphylaxis, repeat anesthesia may proceed in the context of shared decision-making and based on the history and results of diagnostic evaluation with skin tests or in vitro tests when available, and supervised challenge when necessary.

"Frequency of fatal and recurrent anaphylaxis due to COW'S milk: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies"

Cow's milk allergy can result in anaphylactic reactions. The estimated prevalence of cow's milk allergy in developed countries ranges from 0.5% to 3% at age 1 year. Our objective was to perform a systematic review and, if possible, a meta-analysis to assess the frequency of fatal and recurrent anaphylaxis induced by cow's milk. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Web of Science for studies that had assessed fatal and recurrent anaphylaxis induced by cow's milk for the population of a country or at least an administrative region. Our review included cohort, cross-sectional, and registry studies that had assessed the incidence or prevalence of recurrent anaphylaxis or the incidence of fatal anaphylaxis due to cow's milk. The pooled prevalence of recurrence (PR) for at least an episode of anaphylaxis was 26.98% (3.85-189.1). Teymourpour et al (Iran) reported the highest PR (53.10%); the two studies with the lowest PR were from France (5.2 and 0.42, respectively) (p < .01). Nine studies on fatal anaphylaxis were selected (41 deaths) and found to be highly heterogeneous (I2  = 75.9%). Levy et al and Bassagio et al reported the highest incidence rate (IR 0.15 and 0.6 deaths per million persons-year). The PR of anaphylaxis was approximately one quarter of patients with anaphylaxis due to cow's milk, while deaths from anaphylaxis caused by cow's milk were very rare, although some studies report rates as high as 15 times the lowest IR.

[Diagnostics of drug allergies and intolerances]

The prevalence of hypersensitivity reactions to drugs is increasing. Currently, this affects more than 7% of the world population. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) and beta-lactam antibiotics (BLA) are by far the most common pharmaceutical preparations involved in hypersensitivity reactions to drugs. Misdiagnoses are frequent and BLA allergies present a danger that can lead to adverse health outcomes. Therefore, delabeling (exclusion of a suspected diagnosis) is paramount for those affected. Following the occurrence of uncomplicated maculopapular exanthemas, outpatient oral drug provocation can be safely considered in children without prior skin tests. Immediate perioperative reactions are rare. The approach to studying these complex reactions requires collaboration between allergologists and anesthesiologists to provide the best possible care for these patients.

Different age groups present different clinics in anaphylaxis with children: one size does not fit all children

BACKGROUND

Childhood anaphylaxis presents with a heterogeneous clinic. Elicitors and epidemiologic factors associated with anaphylaxis differ with age, geographic location and lifestyle. This study aimed to determine the clinical features and age-specific patterns of childhood anaphylaxis in a single referral center in Turkey.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of anaphylaxis in children aged between 0 and 18 years of age, attending an allergy department in a children's hospital.

RESULTS

A total of 95 children diagnosed with anaphylaxis were analyzed. Among all, 35.8% of the first anaphylaxis episodes occurred ininfancy and 57.9% in preschool age. Foods were the most common culprits (57.9%) and followed by drugs (15.8%). Patients with foodinduced anaphylaxis were younger in age (p < 0.001). Food-related anaphylaxis was most common with cow's milk (36.4%) and followed by tree nuts (20%). Cow's milk played a significant role as a trigger in infancy, and tree nuts as a trigger in preschoolers and school-age children. Mucocutaneous manifestations were almost universally present (94.7%), followed by respiratory compromise (56.8%), with gastrointestinal (55.8%), cardiovascular (9.5%), and neurologic (4.2%) symptoms being less common. Respiratory and cardiovascular system-related symptoms were found more frequently in school-age children (p = 0.02 and p = 0.014, respectively). The severity of anaphylaxis was higher in school-age children (p = 0.015).

DISCUSSION

Findings reveal that children diagnosed with anaphylaxis differ in terms of etiological and clinical findings according to age groups. This difference shows the dynamically changing clinic of anaphylaxis over time and the importance of evaluating childhood anaphylaxis according to age groups.

Canadian Anaphylaxis Network-Predicting Recurrence after Emergency Presentation for Allergic REaction (CAN-PREPARE): a prospective, cohort study protocol

INTRODUCTION

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially fatal multiorgan system manifestation of an allergic reaction. The highest incidence of anaphylaxis is in children and adolescents. Biphasic anaphylaxis (BA) is defined as the recurrence of allergic symptoms after resolution of an initial reaction. It has been reported to occur in 10%-20% of cases within 1-48 hours from the onset of the initial reaction. The dilemma for physicians is determining which patients with resolved anaphylaxis should be observed for BA and for how long. Guidelines for duration of postanaphylaxis monitoring vary, are based on limited evidence and can have unintended negative impacts on patient safety, quality of life and healthcare resources. The objectives of this study are to derive a prognostic model for BA and to develop a risk-scoring system that informs disposition decisions of children who present to emergency departments (ED) with anaphylaxis.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This prospective multicentre cohort study will enrol 1682 patients from seven paediatric EDs that are members of the Paediatric Emergency Research Canada network. We will enrol patients younger than 18 years of age with an allergic reaction meeting anaphylaxis diagnostic criteria. Trained ED research assistants will screen, obtain consent and prospectively collect study data. Research assistants will follow patients during their ED visit and ascertain, in conjunction with the medical team, if the patient develops BA. A standardised follow-up survey conducted following study enrolment will determine if a biphasic reaction occurred after ED disposition. Model development will conform to the broad principles of the PROGRESS (Prognosis Research Strategy) framework and reporting will follow the Transparent Reporting of a multivariable prediction model for Individual Prognosis or Diagnosis Statement.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics approval has been received from all participating centres. Our dissemination plan focuses on informing clinicians, policy makers and parents of the results through publication in peer-reviewed journals and broadcasting on multiple media platforms.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05135377.

Anaphylaxis in older adult patients: a 10-year retrospective experience

Background

Despite the worldwide increase in life expectancy and the elderly population, very little is known about the characteristics of anaphylaxis in older adults.

Methods

A retrospective scan was made of the files of patients who presented at the Allergy Unit of our clinic between October 2011 and October 2021. The study included 971 patients aged ≥18 years who met the criteria for diagnosis of anaphylaxis. The patients were separated into 2 groups of adults (18–64 years) and older adults (≥65 years).

Results

The adult group included 887 (91.3%) patients and the older adult group, 84 (8.7%) patients. Comorbid diseases were seen more frequently in the older adults than in the adult group (p < 0.001). Drugs were seen to be the most common trigger of anaphylaxis in both groups, and this was more common in the older adult group (p = 0.039). Food was a more common trigger of anaphylaxis in the adult group than in the older adult group (p = 0.017). In both groups, the skin was the organ most affected, and was less affected in the older adults than in the adults (p = 0.020). Cardiovascular symptoms were seen significantly more and respiratory symptoms significantly less in the older adult group (p < 0.001, p = 0.002, respectively). Admission to the hospital and the intensive care unit was more frequent in the older adult group and rates of adrenalin administration were higher compared to the adult group (p < 0.001 for all).

Conclusion

Anaphylaxis in the older adults is generally caused by drugs. Older adults were found to have more cardiovascular symptoms and more frequent adrenalin injections, hospitalizations and intensive care unit admissions.

Clinical features of anaphylaxis in children

Background: Despite the considerable increase in anaphylaxis frequency, there are limited studies on clinical features of anaphylaxis in children in developing countries. Objective: We aimed to analyze the demographic and clinical features of anaphylaxis in children in Turkey by comparing different age groups and triggers. Methods: Medical records of 147 children, ages 0-18 years, diagnosed with anaphylaxis between 2010 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Results: The mean ± standard deviation age at first anaphylaxis episode was 5.9 ± 5.2 years, with a male predominance (63.9%); 25.2% were infants and 52.4% were < 6 years of age at their first anaphylaxis episode; 78.2% were atopic, with the highest frequency in children with food-induced anaphylaxis (FIA). The home (51.7%) was the most frequent setting. The overall leading cause of anaphylaxis was food (44.2%), which was more frequent at < 6 years of age, followed by drugs (28.6%) and bee venom (22.4%), both were more frequent among older children (>6 years). The patients with venom allergy had the highest rate of rapid onset of symptoms (p < 0.001). Gastrointestinal symptoms were observed significantly more in infants (48.6%) and in children with FIA (38.5%); cardiovascular symptoms were more frequently observed in children > 6 years of age (48.6%) and in children with drug-induced anaphylaxis (64.3%). Although recurrent anaphylaxis was reported for 23.1% of the patients, it was highest in the patients with FIA (35.9%). Overall, only 47.6% of the patients received epinephrine in the emergency department (ED) and 27.3% were referred to an allergy specialist, with the patients with FIA having the lowest rate for both, 32.3% and 10.8%, respectively. Children with drug-induced anaphylaxis had the highest rate of severe anaphylaxis (57.1%). Conclusion: There is a need to improve anaphylaxis recognition and management in all children regardless of age and trigger. Inadequate treatment was most evident in infants and patients with FIA.

An EAACI Task Force report on allergy to beta-lactams in children: Clinical entities and diagnostic procedures

Beta-lactam (BL) allergy suspicion is common in children and constitutes a major public health problem, with an impact on patient's health and on medical costs. However, it has been found that most of these reactions are not confirmed by a complete allergic workup. The diagnostic value of the currently available allergy tests has been investigated intensively recently by different groups throughout the world. This has led to major changes in the management of children with a suspected BL allergy. Particularly, it is now well accepted that skin tests can be skipped before the drug provocation test in children with a benign non-immediate reaction to BL. However, there is still a debate on the optimal allergic workup to perform in children with a benign immediate reaction. In addition, management of children with severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions remains difficult. In this review, based on a selection of the most relevant studies found in the literature, we will review and discuss the diagnosis of different forms of BL allergy in children.

Food-induced anaphylaxis in early childhood and factors associated with its severity

Background: Several factors that increase the risk of severe food-induced anaphylaxis have been identified. Objective: We aimed to determine the demographic, etiologic, and clinical features of food-induced anaphylaxis in early childhood and also any other factors associated with severe anaphylaxis. Methods: We carried out a medical chart review of anaphylaxis cases from 16 pediatric allergy and immunology centers in Turkey. Results: The data of 227 patients with 266 food-induced anaphylaxis episodes were included in the study. The median (interquartile range) age of the first anaphylaxis episode was 9 months (6-18 months); 160 of these patients were boys (70.5%). The anaphylaxis episodes were mild in 75 cases (28.2%), moderate in 154 cases (57.9%), and severe in 37 cases (13.9%). The most frequent food allergens involved were cow's milk (47.4%), nuts (16.7%), and hen's egg (15.8%). Epinephrine was administered in only 98 (36.8%) of these anaphylaxis episodes. A logistic regression analysis revealed two statistically significant factors that were independently associated with severe anaphylaxis: the presence of angioedema and hoarseness during the anaphylactic episode. Urticaria was observed less frequently in patients who developed hypotension. In addition, confusion and syncope were associated with 25.9- and 44.6-fold increases, respectively, in the risk of concomitant hypotension. Conclusion: Cow's milk, nuts, and hen's egg caused the majority of mild and moderate-to-severe anaphylaxis episodes. The presence of angioedema and hoarseness in any patient who presents with a history of food-induced anaphylaxis should alert clinicians that the reaction may be severe. In addition, the presence of confusion, syncope, or stridor probably indicates concomitant hypotension.

Prevalence and characteristics of Hymenoptera venom allergy in urban school children aged 6 to 18 years living in Trabzon

Background/aim

Hymenoptera venom allergy is one of the leading causes of systemic allergic reactions in both adults and children. The present study was conducted to evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of Hymenoptera venom allergy in urban school children aged 6 to 18 years living in Trabzon.

Materials and methods

In this cross-sectional, two-level survey study, children were recruited using random sampling of public primary and secondary schools. Firstly, parents were asked about their child’s age and sex and whether their child had ever been stung by any kind of bee. When they responded “yes” to the last question, they attended a face-to-face interview at the outpatient clinic for the second part of the survey, which included information about history of insect stings and the presence of atopic diseases.

Results

Of 17,000 children, 7904 (46.5%; 3718 males, 47.0%) returned the first-level questionnaire. A total of 4312 (54.5%) were stung at least once in their lifetime. Males had a significantly higher risk of being stung (59.4%, odds ratio: 1.44, 95% confidence interval: 1.32–1.58, p < 0.0001). The second-level questionnaire was completed for 545 (12.6%) of the children. Of 950 stings reported in 545 children, 5.2% were large local reactions (LLRs), 1.9% were generalized cutaneous reactions (GCRs), and 1.3% were systemic reactions (SRs). The stinging insect was Apis mellifera and Vespula in 66.2% and 33.8% of stings, respectively (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Hymenoptera stings are common in urban school children living in Trabzon. The most common type of allergic reaction is LLR and the most reported stinging insect is Apis mellifera.

Peanut-induced anaphylaxis in children and adolescents: Data from the European Anaphylaxis Registry

BACKGROUND

Peanut allergy has a rising prevalence in high-income countries, affecting 0.5%-1.4% of children. This study aimed to better understand peanut anaphylaxis in comparison to anaphylaxis to other food triggers in European children and adolescents.

METHODS

Data was sourced from the European Anaphylaxis Registry via an online questionnaire, after in-depth review of food-induced anaphylaxis cases in a tertiary paediatric allergy centre.

RESULTS

3514 cases of food anaphylaxis were reported between July 2007 - March 2018, 56% in patients younger than 18 years. Peanut anaphylaxis was recorded in 459 children and adolescents (85% of all peanut anaphylaxis cases). Previous reactions (42% vs. 38%; p = .001), asthma comorbidity (47% vs. 35%; p < .001), relevant cofactors (29% vs. 22%; p = .004) and biphasic reactions (10% vs. 4%; p = .001) were more commonly reported in peanut anaphylaxis. Most cases were labelled as severe anaphylaxis (Ring&Messmer grade III 65% vs. 56% and grade IV 1.1% vs. 0.9%; p = .001). Self-administration of intramuscular adrenaline was low (17% vs. 15%), professional adrenaline administration was higher in non-peanut food anaphylaxis (34% vs. 26%; p = .003). Hospitalization was higher for peanut anaphylaxis (67% vs. 54%; p = .004).

CONCLUSIONS

The European Anaphylaxis Registry data confirmed peanut as one of the major causes of severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reactions in European children, with some characteristic features e.g., presence of asthma comorbidity and increased rate of biphasic reactions. Usage of intramuscular adrenaline as first-line treatment is low and needs to be improved. The Registry, designed as the largest database on anaphylaxis, allows continuous assessment of this condition.

Prevention and management of allergic reactions to food in child care centers and schools: Practice guidelines

Food allergy management in child care centers and schools is a controversial topic, for which evidence-based guidance is needed. Following the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach, we conducted systematic literature reviews of the anticipated health effects of selected interventions for managing food allergy in child care centers and schools; we compiled data about the costs, feasibility, acceptability, and effects on health equity of the selected interventions; and we developed the following conditional recommendations: we suggest that child care centers and schools implement allergy training and action plans; we suggest that they use epinephrine (adrenaline) to treat suspected anaphylaxis; we suggest that they stock unassigned epinephrine autoinjectors, instead of requiring students to supply their own personal autoinjectors to be stored on site for designated at-school use; and we suggest that they do not implement site-wide food prohibitions (eg, "nut-free" schools) or allergen-restricted zones (eg, "milk-free" tables), except in the special circumstances identified in this document. The recommendations are labeled "conditional" due to the low quality of available evidence. More research is needed to determine with greater certainty which interventions are likely to be the most beneficial. Policymakers might need to adapt the recommendations to fit local circumstances.

Community Use of Epinephrine for the Treatment of Anaphylaxis: A Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Community use of epinephrine for the treatment of anaphylaxis is low. Knowledge of rates of epinephrine use in the pre-hospital setting along with identification of barriers to its use will contribute to the development of policies and guidelines.

OBJECTIVES

A search was conducted on PubMed and Embase in April 2020. Our systematic review focused on 4 domains: (1) epinephrine use in the pre-hospital setting; (2) barriers to epinephrine use in the pre-hospital setting; (3) cost evaluation and cost-effectiveness of epinephrine use; and (4) programs and strategies to improve epinephrine use during anaphylaxis.

METHODS

Two meta-analyses with logit transformation were conducted to: (1) calculate the pooled estimate of the rate of epinephrine use in the pre-hospital setting among cases of anaphylaxis and (2) calculate the pooled estimate of the rate of biphasic reactions among all cases of anaphylaxis.

RESULTS

Epinephrine use in the pre-hospital setting was significantly higher for children compared with adults (20.98% [95% confidence interval (CI): 16.38%, 26.46%] vs 7.17% [95% CI: 2.71%, 17.63%], respectively, P = .0027). The pooled estimate of biphasic reactions among all anaphylaxis cases was 3.92% (95% CI: 2.88%, 5.32%). Our main findings indicate that pre-hospital use of epinephrine in anaphylaxis remains suboptimal. Major barriers to the use of epinephrine were identified as low prescription rates of epinephrine autoinjectors and lack of stock epinephrine in schools, which was determined to be cost-effective. Finally, in reviewing programs and strategies, numerous studies have engineered effective methods to promote adequate and timely use of epinephrine.

CONCLUSION

The main findings of our study demonstrated that across the globe, prompt epinephrine use in cases of anaphylaxis remains suboptimal. For practical recommendations, we would suggest considering stock epinephrine in schools and food courts to increase the use of epinephrine in the community. We recommend use of pamphlets in public areas (ie, malls, food courts, etc.) to assist in recognizing anaphylaxis and after that with prompt epinephrine administration, to avoid the rare risk of fatality in anaphylaxis cases.

Anaphylaxis: Five Years' Experience in the Emergency Rooms of Five University Hospitals in Korea

Background: Anaphylaxis is an allergic disease that requires special handling due to its potential fatality. Recent epidemiological data indicate that the incidence of anaphylaxis is rising. However, actual data on the prevalence or causes of anaphylaxis in Korea are limited. Methods: The emergency room attendees diagnosed with anaphylaxis between 2011 and 2015 in five university hospitals were included. Medical records were reviewed retrospectively. Results: During the 5 years, a total of 505 subjects were diagnosed with anaphylaxis. Respiratory presentations were more common in children than in adults, while adults presented more frequently with cardiovascular symptoms. Intraoral angioedema was more often observed in the countryside than in the city. Insect stings/bites were more common in the countryside than in the city. Drugs were much more common in adults than in children. In the countryside, the frequency of anaphylaxis was higher in summer and autumn than in spring and winter. The use of corticosteroids was less common in children than in adults, while children more frequently got treatment with inhaled beta 2 agonist. Conclusions: The principal causes of anaphylaxis in Korean patients were food, drugs, and stings/bites. The cause, clinical features and management of anaphylaxis were significantly different depending on age and region. These real-world data on anaphylaxis could be helpful to deepen that understanding of this condition for physicians and patients.

Risk Factors and Characteristics of Biphasic Anaphylaxis

BACKGROUND

Anaphylaxis is an immediate hypersensitivity reaction. However, a biphasic course with the second onset of symptoms can occur hours after the initial phase. Little is known about the causes of biphasic anaphylaxis making the identification of patients at risk difficult.

OBJECTIVE

To identify factors predisposing for biphasic anaphylaxis for the better understanding of these reactions.

METHODS

Data from the Anaphylaxis Registry (from 11 countries) including 8736 patients with monophasic and 435 biphasic anaphylaxis were analyzed.

RESULTS

The rate of biphasic reactions in this large cohort was 4.7%. The identified risk factors were reaction severity (grade III/IV vs grade II: odds ratio [OR] = 1.34; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1-1.62); multiorgan involvement; skin, gastrointestinal, severe respiratory, and cardiac symptoms; anaphylaxis caused by peanut/tree nut (OR = 1.78; 95% CI: 1.38-2.23) or an unknown elicitor (OR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.41-2.72); exercise as a cofactor (OR = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.17-1.78); chronic urticaria as a comorbidity (OR = 2.12; 95% CI: 1.19-3.78); a prolonged interval between the contact with the elicitor and start of primary symptoms (OR for >30 vs <30 min: 1.38; 95% CI: 1.08-1.76); and antihistamine treatment (OR = 1.52; 95% CI: 1.14-2.02).

CONCLUSION

A biphasic course of anaphylaxis occurs more frequently in severely affected patients with multiorgan involvement. However, we identified multiple additional predictors, suggesting that the pathogenesis of biphasic reactions is more complex than being a rebound of a severe primary reaction.

Anaphylaxis-a 2020 practice parameter update, systematic review, and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) analysis

Anaphylaxis is an acute, potential life-threatening systemic allergic reaction that may have a wide range of clinical manifestations. Severe anaphylaxis and/or the need for repeated doses of epinephrine to treat anaphylaxis are risk factors for biphasic anaphylaxis. Antihistamines and/or glucocorticoids are not reliable interventions to prevent biphasic anaphylaxis, although evidence supports a role for antihistamine and/or glucocorticoid premedication in specific chemotherapy protocols and rush aeroallergen immunotherapy. Evidence is lacking to support the role of antihistamines and/or glucocorticoid routine premedication in patients receiving low- or iso-osmolar contrast material to prevent recurrent radiocontrast media anaphylaxis. Epinephrine is the first-line pharmacotherapy for uniphasic and/or biphasic anaphylaxis. After diagnosis and treatment of anaphylaxis, all patients should be kept under observation until symptoms have fully resolved. All patients with anaphylaxis should receive education on anaphylaxis and risk of recurrence, trigger avoidance, self-injectable epinephrine education, referral to an allergist, and be educated about thresholds for further care.

Physicians prescribe adrenaline autoinjectors, do parents use them when needed?

BACKGROUND

Anaphylaxis is a sudden, severe, and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, affecting a portion of allergic patients. Adrenaline is the first-line medication for anaphylaxis and available in many parts of the world as adrenaline autoinjectors (AAIs).

OBJECTIVE

Aim of this study was to determine attitudes and knowledge levels of patients/parents regarding the use of AAIs, frequency, and rate of appropriate AAI use and to give a standardized and better education by improving on mistakes during administration.

METHOD

190 patients aged 1-18 years who were prescribed AAIs for any reason between 2012 and 2017 in Hacettepe University Pediatric Allergy Unit. Demographic data were collected during face-to-face interview or by telephone. Parents completed a mini-survey regarding use, carriage, and storage of AAI.

RESULTS

Some 190 patients (64.7% male) aged 7.83 (4.99-12.08) years, median (inter-quartile), were included in the study. The indications for AAI prescription were food allergy (78.9%); venom allergy (14.2%); idiopathic anaphylaxis (3.7%); mastocytosis (2.1%); and drug allergy (1.0%). One-fourth of AAI-prescribed patients experienced anaphylaxis requiring the use of AAI within the past five years. However, only 30% of the patients dared to use AAI; only three-quarters of whom had managed to use it correctly.

CONCLUSION

After prescription of AAI and initial training, patients and parents' concerns and fears should be taken into consideration and necessary support should be provided. At every opportunity and each clinical visit, not only should training sessions be repeated but also the patients and parents should be psychologically supported.

Diagnosis and management of drug-induced anaphylaxis in children: An EAACI position paper

Drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHR) constitute a major and common public health problem, particularly in children. One of the most severe manifestations of DHR is anaphylaxis, which might be associated with a life-threatening risk. During those past decades, anaphylaxis has received particularly a lot of attention and international consensus guidelines have been recently published. Whilst drug-induced anaphylaxis is more commonly reported in adulthood, less is known about the role of drugs in pediatric anaphylaxis. Betalactam antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the most commonly involved drugs, probably related to high prescription rates. Diagnosis relies on the recognition of symptoms pattern and is based on complete allergic workup, particularly including skin tests and/or specific IgE. However, the real diagnostic value of those tests to diagnose immediate reactions in children remains not well defined for a significant number of the drugs. Generally, a drug provocation test is discussed to confirm or exclude an immediate-onset drug-induced hypersensitivity. Although avoidance of the incriminated drug (and related drug) is the rule, rapid desensitization is useful in selected subgroups of patients. There is a need for large, multicentric studies, to evaluate the real diagnostic value of the currently available skin tests. Moreover there is also a need to develop new diagnostic tests in the future to improve the management of these children.

Infantile Anaphylaxis in Korea: a Multicenter Retrospective Case Study

BACKGROUND

Anaphylaxis is increasing in young children. The aim of the present study was to analyze the clinical characteristics of anaphylaxis in Korean infants, with a focus on food triggers.

METHODS

The study analyzed the medical records of infants aged 0 to 2 years old who had been diagnosed with anaphylaxis in 23 secondary or tertiary hospitals in Korea.

RESULTS

We identified 363 cases of infantile anaphylaxis (66.9% male). Cutaneous symptoms were most prevalent (98.6%), followed by respiratory (83.2%), gastrointestinal (29.8%), and neurologic (11.6%) symptoms. Cardiovascular symptoms were noted in 7.7% of the cases. Most of the cases of anaphylaxis (338; 93.1%) were induced by foods. The most common trigger food was cow's milk and cow's milk products (43.8%), followed by hen's eggs (21.9%), walnuts (8.3%), wheat (7.7%), peanuts (4.8%), other nuts (3.0%), and fish (2.1%). In cow's milk-induced anaphylaxis cases, more than half the cases had cow's milk specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) levels that were lower than the diagnostic decision points (DDPs), which is 5 kU_A/L for those under the age of 1 and 15 kU_A/L for those over the age of 1. In anaphylaxis induced by hen's egg, most of the cases (91.8%) had hen's egg sIgE levels that were higher than the DDP, which is 2 kU_A/L for those under the age of 2 and 7 kU_A/L for those over the age of 2. Of the infantile anaphylaxis cases, 46.8% had been treated with epinephrine, and 25.1% had been prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector.

CONCLUSION

Cow's milk is the most frequent trigger food of anaphylaxis in Korean infants. However, we found no significant correlation between the sIgE level and clinical severity. Education is required regarding the importance of epinephrine as the first line therapy for anaphylaxis and on properly prescribing epinephrine for infants with a history of anaphylaxis.

Drug-induced anaphylactic reactions in children: A retrospective analysis of 159 validated spontaneous reports

PURPOSE

The main objective of this study was to analyze validated cases of drug-induced anaphylactic reactions in children with regard to incriminated drugs, clinical characteristics, and associated factors. A further objective was to compare differences in incriminated drugs and characteristics between validated cases and a reference excluding anaphylactic reaction cases (basic dataset).

METHODS

Spontaneous reports of anaphylactic reactions in children (0-17 years) registered between January 2000 to December 2016 were extracted from the adverse drug reaction database of the German Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices. These reports were restricted to drugs for which at least four cases were found. After case validation, 159 reports remained (validated dataset) and were compared with the basic dataset (n = 12.168 reports) using inferential statistics.

RESULTS

Estimated yearly increase of reports (36.8 vs 0.1), most frequently incriminated drugs (antibiotics 30.2% vs 11%, analgesics/antipyretics 22.0% vs 5.6%; P values less than 0.001) and route of administration (38.4% vs 6.7%) differed between the validated dataset and the basic dataset. Validated cases differed in severity (higher with atracurium), reported symptoms (urticaria leading with analgesics), and associated factors (atopy/allergy rarely reported with antibiotics) depending on the incriminated drug class. In 13.8% (11.3% if excluding repeated readministration in one person) of the cases, the drug had not been tolerated before.

CONCLUSIONS

A heterogeneous clinical phenotype with differences in associated factors was observed, suggesting different underlying mechanisms triggered by the different drug groups. Occurrence of serious drug-induced anaphylactic reactions in children could be reduced by carefully considering patient history.

Drug-induced anaphylaxis in children

Anaphylaxis represents one of the most frequent medical emergencies in childhood. However, as compared to adults, drugs are less common triggers of anaphylaxis in children, with a frequency which is increasing  from infancy to adolescence. Deaths seldom occur, maybe because of the paucity of comorbidities in children.  Antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs  (NSAIDs) are the main elicitors in drug-induced anaphylaxis in children. Both immune-mediated (mainly IgE-mediated) and non immune-mediated may be involved. IgG-mediated and complement-mediated mechanisms has been also hypothesized. Correct management relies on a right diagnosis and prompt therapy. A proper work-up is also important to prevent further potentially fatal re-exposures to the same drug or other structurally similar molecules but also unnecessary avoidance of medications not representing the culprit of the episode.

Do Corticosteroids Prevent Biphasic Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a severe hypersensitivity reaction that is rapid in onset and can result in death. The pattern of an anaphylactic reaction can be uniphasic (or monophasic), biphasic (also called delayed or late phase), or refractory in nature. The most widely cited definition of biphasic anaphylaxis is a recurrence of anaphylactic symptoms after initial resolution despite no further exposure to the trigger. Corticosteroids are thought by some to prevent the development of biphasic symptoms and, therefore, commonly used in the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis but this has not been systemtically analyzed. In this review, Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched for articles using "anaphylaxis" combined with the key terms "biphasic" and/or "corticosteroids" and/or "epinephrine." A total of 31 appropriate studies were identified. Biphasic anaphylactic reactions are more likely to occur in moderate to severe anaphylaxis or when anaphylaxis is not treated with timely epinephrine. Because of the potential detrimental adverse effects of corticosteroids and lack of compelling evidence demonstrating an effective role in reducing anaphylaxis severity or preventing biphasic anaphylaxis, we do not advocate for their routine use in anaphylaxis.

Anaphylaxis triggers in a large tertiary care hospital in Qatar: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic disease that may lead to death if not immediately recognized and treated. Triggers of anaphylaxis including food, drugs, and insect stings can vary widely. The incidence of anaphylaxis seems to be affected by age, sex, atopy, and geographic location. This study aims to examine the common triggers of anaphylaxis in Qatar.

METHODS

A total of 1068 electronic medical records were audited using power chart system: 446 from the medical coding system of anaphylaxis and 622 from the epinephrine auto-injectors (EAIs) dispensed during January 2012-December 2017.

RESULTS

Of 1068 patients, 574 (53.5%) had anaphylaxis; male to female ratio was 1.2, and 300 patients (77.9%) were less than 10 years old. The common triggers were food (n = 316, 55.0%), insect stings (n = 161, 28.0%), and drugs (n = 103, 17.9%). Common anaphylaxis food triggers were nuts (n = 173, 30.1%), eggs (n = 89, 15.5%), and seafood (n = 72, 12.5%), and common anaphylaxis medication triggers were antibiotics (n = 49, 8.5%) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (n = 30, 5.2%). Interestingly, 135 anaphylactic patients (23.5%) were due to black ant stings. The anaphylaxis triggers varied significantly between children and adults. Among children (less than 10 years), three quarters of the events were triggered by food (223, 74.3%) while among adults (20-55 years), insect stings (n = 59, 43.0%) and drugs (n = 44, 32.0%) were dominant.

DISCUSSION

This is the first national study stratifying anaphylaxis triggers among different age groups in Qatar. This study will serve as a guide for clinical practice in allergy clinics in Qatar and will help to assess future trends of anaphylaxis in Qatar.

A multicenter study on anaphylaxis caused by peanut, tree nuts, and seeds in children and adolescents

Peanut (PN) and tree nuts (TNs) are common causes of anaphylaxis in Western countries, but no information is available in Korea. To feature clinical characteristics of anaphylaxis caused by PN, TNs, and seeds, a retrospective medical record review was performed in 14 university hospitals in Korea (2009-2013). One hundred and twenty-six cases were identified, with the mean age of 4.9 years. PN, walnut (WN), and pine nut accounted for 32.5%, 41.3%, and 7.1%, respectively. The median values of specific IgE (sIgE) to PN, WN, and pine nut were 10.50, 8.74, and 4.61 kU_A /l, respectively. Among 50 cases managed in the emergency department, 52.0% were treated with epinephrine, 66.0% with steroid, 94.0% with antihistamines, 36.0% with oxygen, and 48.0% with bronchodilator. In conclusion, WN, PN, and pine nut were the three most common triggers of anaphylaxis in Korean children, and anaphylaxis could occur at remarkably low levels of sIgE.

Actual drug allergy during childhood: Five years' experience at a tertiary referral centre

BACKGROUND

Drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHR) are common in the paediatric population, representing a public health problem. Recent studies have confirmed that the frequency of drug allergy is overestimated by both parents and physicians. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and risk factors of actual drug allergies in children admitted to a tertiary referral allergy centre.

METHODS

Medical records covering the period of 2005-2010 of children with a history of DHR were reviewed. Demographic features of the patients and results of skin and drug provocation tests were noted. The European Network for Drug Allergy (ENDA) questionnaire was filled by using medical records and making phone calls with parents.

RESULTS

Ninety-six patients with 140 DHRs were evaluated. Seventeen children had confirmed drug allergy by positive skin tests (n=11) and drug provocation tests (n=5). One patient underwent severe anaphylaxis and subsequent cardiac arrest during infusion of the drug, and therefore diagnostic tests were not performed. Actual drug allergy was more frequent in children with chronic diseases (58.8% vs. 26.5%, p=0.018) and histories of anaphylaxis during DHR (58.8% vs. 24%, p=0.001). The patients' history of anaphylaxis [OR: 5.789, 95%CI: 1.880-17.554, p=0.002], sweating [OR: 7.8, 95%CI: 1.041-58.443, p=0.046] and dyspnoea [OR: 5.230, 95%CI: 1.836-14.894, p=0.002] during suspicious DHRs increased the risk for actual drug allergy.

CONCLUSION

Actual drug allergy was determined in 17.7% of the patients with a suspicious DHR. Having a history of anaphylaxis during suspected drug reactions as well as symptoms of sweating and dyspnoea increased the risk for actual drug allergy.

Time of Onset and Predictors of Biphasic Anaphylactic Reactions: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

A biphasic reaction is a potentially life-threatening recurrence of symptoms after initial resolution of anaphylaxis without re-exposure to the trigger. The infrequent nature of these reactions has made them difficult to study and predict.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the time of onset and predictors of biphasic anaphylactic reactions.

METHOD

Original research studies that described biphasic reactions in case series or cohort studies were included. Studies that did not describe biphasic reactions and case series with less than 2 biphasic reactions were excluded. Data sources included MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus from inception to January 2014 and bibliographies of included articles. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for dichotomous variables. Inconsistency among studies was assessed with the I(2) statistic.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven observational studies that enrolled 4114 patients with anaphylaxis and 192 patients with biphasic reactions were included. The median time of symptom onset was 11 (range 0.2 to 72.0) hours. Food as the inciting trigger was associated with decreased risk (pooled OR 0.62, 95% CI: 0.4 to 0.94, I(2) = 0%) and an unknown inciting trigger with increased risk (pooled OR 1.72, 95% CI: 1.0 to 2.95, I(2) = 61%). Initial presentation with hypotension (pooled OR 2.18, 95% CI: 1.14 to 4.15, I(2) = 79%) was also associated with the development of a biphasic reaction.

CONCLUSION

Biphasic anaphylatic reactions were less likely among patients with food as an inciting trigger. Patients who present with hypotension or have an unknown inciting trigger may be at increased risk of a biphasic reaction. Clinicians should tailor observation periods for patients individually based on clinical characteristics.

Biphasic anaphylactic reactions: occurrence and mortality

BACKGROUND

Monitoring after complete resolution of anaphylactic reactions is recommended. The aim of this study was to define the occurrence of biphasic - and clinically important biphasic - anaphylactic reactions, the number of transfers to intensive care units (ICU) because of anaphylaxis, and the number of deaths within 10 days of presentation to the emergency department (ED).

METHODS

Clinical records of patients visiting the ED of a tertiary care hospital were analysed retrospectively. Hospital databases, direct contact with patients and caregivers, and the Internet were used to obtain mortality rates.

RESULTS

Of 259 557 ED presentations from February 2001 through to August 2013, 1334 (0.51%) episodes of allergic reactions were detected, and 532 (0.20%) episodes in 495 patients fulfilled the definition of anaphylaxis. In 227 (44.8%) episodes, the length of hospital stay was ≥8 h (median 22 h, IQR 16-24). There were 507 uniphasic and 25 (4.5%) biphasic anaphylactic reactions. Twelve (2.3%) were clinically important, including 2 (0.36%) that occurred during hospital stay, one of whom (0.19%) was transferred to ICU for shock. No risk factors for biphasic reactions could be found. Eight patients were lost to follow-up. There were no deaths during the 10-day follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Biphasic anaphylactic reactions, especially clinically important ones, occurred rarely, and no mortality was found, whether the monitoring was for ≥8 h or for <8 h. Our study could motivate physicians to consider discharging patients after complete resolution of an anaphylactic reaction and to dispense with prolonged monitoring.

Developments in the field of allergy in 2011 through the eyes of Clinical and Experimental Allergy

As in previous years, we felt it would be of value to our readership to summarize the new information provided by the authors who have published in Clinical and Experimental Allergy in 2011 and set this in the context of recent advances in our understanding of the pathogenesis and management of allergic disease in all its many manifestations. In 2011, about 210 articles were published in Clinical and Experimental Allergy including editorials, reviews, opinion articles, guidelines, letters, book reviews and of course at the heart of the journal, papers containing original data. As before, this review is divided into sections based on the way the journal is structured, although this year we have grouped together all the papers dealing with mechanisms of allergic disease, whether they involve patients (clinical mechanisms), pure in vitro studies (basic mechanisms) or animal models (experimental models), as we felt this was a more coherent way to deal with the subject. In the field of asthma and rhinitis, the relationship between airway inflammation and airway dysfunction was of perennial interest to investigators, as were phenotypes and biomarkers. Aspirin hypersensitivity appeared in studies in several papers and there was new interest in asthma in the elderly. The mechanisms involved in allergic disease describe advances in our understanding of T cell responses, the relationship between inflammation and disease, mast cell and basophil activation, steroid resistance and novel therapies. In the section dealing with epidemiology, studies seeking to identify risk factors for allergic disease including vitamin D are prominent, as once again are studies investigating gene-environment interactions. The clinical allergy section focuses on drug allergy, food allergy and immunotherapy. The area of oral immunotherapy for food allergy is well covered and we were grateful to Stephen Durham for guest editing an outstanding special issue on immunotherapy in the centenary year of Leonard Noon's pioneering work. Lastly, in the field of allergens, the interest in component-resolved diagnosis continues to grow and there are also articles describing important novel cultivars and the effect of food processing on the allergenic properties of foods. Another terrific year, full of important and high-quality work,which the journal has been proud to bring to the allergy community.

Paediatric anaphylaxis in a Singaporean children cohort: changing food allergy triggers over time

BACKGROUND

We have noticed changes in paediatric anaphylaxis triggers locally in Singapore.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to describe the demographic characteristics, clinical features, causative agents and management of children presenting with anaphylaxis.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of Singaporean children presenting with anaphylaxis between January 2005 and December 2009 to a tertiary paediatric hospital.

RESULTS

One hundred and eight cases of anaphylaxis in 98 children were included. Food was the commonest trigger (63%), followed by drugs (30%), whilst 7% were idiopathic. Peanut was the top food trigger (19%), followed by egg (12%), shellfish (10%) and bird's nest (10%). Ibuprofen was the commonest cause of drug induced anaphylaxis (50%), followed by paracetamol (15%) and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, 12%). The median age of presentation for all anaphylaxis cases was 7.9 years old (interquartile range 3.6 to 10.8 years), but food triggers occurred significantly earlier compared to drugs (median 4.9 years vs. 10.5 years, p < 0.05). Mucocutaneous (91%) and respiratory features (88%) were the principal presenting symptoms. Drug anaphylaxis was more likely to result in hypotension compared to food anaphylaxis (21.9% vs. 2.7%, Fisher's exact probability < 0.01). There were 4 reported cases (3.6%) of biphasic reaction occurring within 24 h of anaphylaxis.

CONCLUSION

Food anaphylaxis patterns have changed over time in our study cohort of Singaporean children. Peanuts allergy, almost absent a decade ago, is currently the top food trigger, whilst seafood and bird's nest continue to be an important cause of food anaphylaxis locally. NSAIDs and paracetamol hypersensitivity are unique causes of drug induced anaphylaxis locally.

Anaphylaxis in a tertiary adult allergy clinic: a retrospective review of 516 patients

BACKGROUND

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening acute allergic reaction that can occur at any age.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency, triggering factors, and clinical features of anaphylaxis among adult patients who were referred to a tertiary health care facility.

METHODS

A retrospective medical chart review was performed including all patients referred to the outpatient clinic of the adult allergy department in our university hospital between January 1, 2008 and December 30, 2011 to determine cases involving anaphylaxis.

RESULTS

A total of 516 (2.11%) patients among 24,443 admissions were diagnosed with anaphylaxis. Although the second highest frequency of anaphylaxis cases took place in 2008, a gradual rise in the frequency was determined from 2009 to 2011. Drugs (90.7%) were the most frequent cause, followed by Hymenoptera stings (5.4%), foods (1.6%), latex (0.4%), and exercise (0.2%) respectively. The clinical manifestations during anaphylaxis reported by patients were cutaneous (n = 292, 56.6%), respiratory (n = 253, 49%), cardiovascular (n = 212, 41%), neuropsychiatric (n = 60, 11.6%), and gastrointestinal (n = 52, 10.1%), respectively. Approximately one fifth of the patients received epinephrine, whereas 43% of patients did not receive epinephrine during their treatment in the emergency room. An epinephrine auto-injector was prescribed to 42 patients (8.1%).

CONCLUSION

In this study, the second pattern of National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID) and the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) diagnostic criteria for anaphylaxis predominated among adult patients. Drugs were the leading triggering factor, followed by Hymenoptera stings, foods, latex, and exercise, respectively. Atopy, asthma, and allergic rhinitis were rarely detected.

2012 Update: World Allergy Organization Guidelines for the assessment and management of anaphylaxis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The World Allergy Organization (WAO) Guidelines for the assessment and management of anaphylaxis published in early 2011 provide a global perspective on patient risk factors, triggers, clinical diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of anaphylaxis. In this 2012 Update, subsequently published, clinically relevant research in these areas is reviewed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Patient risk factors and co-factors that amplify anaphylaxis have been documented in prospective studies. The global perspective on the triggers of anaphylaxis has expanded. The clinical criteria for the diagnosis of anaphylaxis that are promulgated in the Guidelines have been validated. Some aspects of anaphylaxis treatment have been prospectively studied. Novel investigations of self-injectable epinephrine for treatment of anaphylaxis recurrences in the community have been performed. Progress has been made with regard to measurement of specific IgE to allergen components (component-resolved testing) that might help to distinguish clinical risk of future anaphylactic episodes to an allergen from asymptomatic sensitization to the allergen. New strategies for immune modulation to prevent food-induced anaphylaxis and new insights into subcutaneous immunotherapy to prevent venom-induced anaphylaxis have been described.

SUMMARY

Research highlighted in this Update strengthens the evidence-based recommendations for assessment, management, and prevention of anaphylaxis made in the WAO Anaphylaxis Guidelines.