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Does anaphylaxis masquerade as asthma in children?

Benger, J.; Erlewyn-Lajeunesse, M.; Sargant, N.; Erlewyn-Lajeunesse, Michel; Benger, Jonathan

Authors

J. Benger

M. Erlewyn-Lajeunesse

N. Sargant

Michel Erlewyn-Lajeunesse

Jonathan Benger



Abstract

Anaphylaxis in children presents most frequently with respiratory features, and concern exists about the potential for diagnostic confusion with acute asthma. 84 cases of asthma requiring intensive care were identified. 11 cases met exclusion criteria, which left 73 cases for analysis using established anaphylaxis diagnostic criteria. 13/73 children (17.8%) were found to have sufficient clinical features for a diagnosis of anaphylaxis to be entertained, with 3/73 cases (4.1%) considered highly likely to be anaphylaxis. This study highlights the potential for diagnostic confusion and demonstrates the need to consider anaphylaxis in all children presenting with severe asthma.

Citation

Benger, J., Erlewyn-Lajeunesse, M., Sargant, N., Erlewyn-Lajeunesse, M., & Benger, J. (2015). Does anaphylaxis masquerade as asthma in children?. Emergency Medicine Journal, 32(1), 83-84. https://doi.org/10.1136/emermed-2014-203603

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date Jan 1, 2015
Journal Emergency Medicine Journal
Print ISSN 1472-0205
Electronic ISSN 1472-0213
Publisher BMJ Publishing Group
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 32
Issue 1
Pages 83-84
DOI https://doi.org/10.1136/emermed-2014-203603
Keywords anaphylaxis, masquerade, asthma, children
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/844366
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/emermed-2014-203603