Treatment of perioperative anaphylaxis: room for improvement?

Abstract

Perioperative anaphylaxis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Prompt and appropriate treatment is required for optimal outcome. Despite general knowledge of this condition, delays occur in the administration of epinephrine and in particular the use of i.v. route of administration in the perioperative setting. Barriers should be addressed to allow prompt utilisation of i.v. epinephrine in perioperative anaphylaxis.

Keywords: epinephrine; fluid resuscitation; intravenous; perioperative anaphylaxis; perioperative hypersensitivity.