Papers from a February 2003 symposium report on the latest progress in the understanding of the pathogenesis, pathophysiology, prevention, and treatment of anaphylaxis. Introductory overviews review the history and classification of anaphylaxis and discuss new ideas on Th2 antibody responses and allergic sensitization. Other papers look at topics including effector cells of anaphylaxis, cytokine enhancement of anaphylaxis, the human heart as a shock organ in anaphylaxis, food- induced anaphylaxis, and anaphylaxis to insect venom and anesthetic drugs. The radiocontrast molecule in anaphylaxis, epinephrine in first-aid treatment, new approaches to treatment, and public policy regarding anaphylaxis are some other topics examined. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
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% 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.
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