Anaphylaxis is an immediate-type allergic reaction involving the whole organism. It is the most life-threatening allergic condition. Although there are few exact epidemiological data regarding prevalence, estimates regarding insect sting anaphylaxis range from 1--3 per cent in the general population, but much higher values have been reported by some authors for food and drug-induced anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is the main acute killer of allergic individuals. Although anaphylaxis was discovered at the beginning of the 20th century, there are still many unresolved issues. These include non-IgE-mediated anaphylactoid reactions, non-immunologically mediated anaphylactoid (pseudo-allergic) reactions, pathophysiological events at the microcirculatory level, appropriate therapy for the acute reaction, strategies for prevention, public education about the problem and new approaches to prevention and therapy at the IgE level. All these subjects are discussed in this book. Since anaphylaxis occurs acutely and is unforeseen, it is very difficult to organize controlled studies regarding therapy and prevention. The spectrum of symptomatology covers many clinical areas (skin, respiratory, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal system), therefore inter-disciplinary approaches are necessary for progress in the field. There is widespread uncertainty among physicians about therapy, especially concerning self-administered treatment. In this important book, an multidisciplinary group of experts explore the pathophysiology of different types of anaphylactic and anaphylactoid reactions. Evidence is presented on the epidemiology of these conditions while problems relating to diagnosis, therapy and prevention are examined in detail. This thorough and up-to-date coverage of the subject will be of great interest to all clinical immunologists, researchers and physicians who deal with this life-threatening condition.
An interdisciplinary group of experts explore the pathophysiology of different types of anaphylactic and anaphylactoid reactions in this timely publication. Data are presented on the epidemiology of these conditions and problems concerning diagnosis, therapy and prevention are discussed. Cardiovascular and microcirculatory events are examined, including microcirculatory disturbances, anaphylaxis during anesthesia, and the role of histamine receptors in the response of the heart to anaphylaxis. There is detailed consideration of the different initiators of anaphylaxis, including food, radiographic media, insect venom, and artificial materials used in operating rooms. The book ends with a discussion of the various controversies surrounding diagnosis and therapy.
Book details:
Author:Novartis Foundation
Publisher:John Wiley and Sons Ltd (23 Jan 2004)
Pages:300
Size:2.139
Format:pdf
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