Cardiovascular · UKMLA & AKT
Anaphylactic shock
A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test. Below are the key points to recognise anaphylactic shock — the full SA Note notes add investigations, management, complications and 10 practice questions.
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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