Two recent studies highlight a significant lack of understanding in the treatment of severe allergic reactions, or anaphylaxis, among patients, caregivers, and emergency medical personnel. These findings will be presented at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) in Boston.
Sasha Alvarado, DO, from Baylor College of Medicine's Division of Immunology, Allergy and Retrovirology emphasized the importance of early recognition and treatment with epinephrine to improve outcomes for anaphylaxis patients. Joni Chow, DO, a pediatric resident at Baylor College of Medicine in San Antonio and lead author of one study said: "We surveyed 96 patients and caregivers in an allergy clinic waiting room to assess knowledge about anaphylaxis and desired components of an action plan for it. The results demonstrate the need to better educate allergic patients to recognize and treat anaphylaxis appropriately."
Despite 95% of respondents being prescribed epinephrine and 73% feeling comfortable recognizing symptoms, only 14% were likely to use epinephrine as a first response. Barriers identified included uncertainty about which symptoms to treat (40.6%), hesitation to go to the emergency room (24%), reluctance to call 911 (17.7%), uncertainty on how to use auto-injectors (11.5%), and fear of needles (5.2%).
A second study analyzed state protocols across U.S. emergency medical services for prehospital treatment of anaphylaxis. Carly Gunderson, DO noted that many protocols are incomplete or outdated with discrepancies including variations in defining anaphylaxis as well as treatment approaches.
The study found that only half included gastrointestinal symptoms in their definition while less than half considered neurological manifestations. Epinephrine was recommended by nearly all protocols but only some states allowed or provided auto-injectors despite their convenience.
Gunderson highlighted surprising omissions like gastrointestinal or neurological symptoms not being considered components of anaphylaxis along with outdated recommendations such as using steroids or first-generation antihistamines.
Both studies underscore the necessity for standardized protocols based on current evidence-based guidelines for managing anaphylaxis effectively.
For further information on these studies or details about ACAAI's annual meeting visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org
