Cardiovascular · UKMLA & AKT
Anaphylactic shock
A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test, covering how to recognise this condition. The full SA Note notes add investigations, management and complications, with practice questions on this topic.
Key high-yield points
- Type 1 (IgE-mediated) hypersensitivity - allergen cross-links IgE on mast cells/basophils → degranulation → histamine, leukotrienes, prostaglandins → massive vasodilation + capillary leak → distributive shock
- Bronchospasm (smooth muscle contraction) + laryngeal oedema (capillary leak into submucosa) cause airway/breathing compromise
- Anaphylactoid reactions (e.g. IV contrast) - direct non-IgE mast cell activation producing identical clinical picture; management is identical
- Common triggers: foods (nuts, shellfish, eggs, milk), medications (penicillin, NSAIDs, IV contrast), insect stings, latex (in-hospital/theatre)
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