TACKLING ANAPHYLAXIS: A PROPOSAL FROM THE MONTPELLIER WORLD HEALTH
ORGANIZATION COLLABORATING CENTRE FOR BETTER MANAGEMENT AND PREVENTION
OF ANAPHYLAXIS
Abstract
Since the first description of anaphylaxis in 1902, its clinical
importance as an emergency condition has been recognized worldwide.
Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening systemic
hypersensitivity reaction characterized by rapid onset and the potential
to endanger life through respiratory or circulatory compromise. It is
usually, although not always, associated with skin and mucosal changes.
Although the academic/scientific communities have advocated to promote
greater awareness and protocols for management of anaphylaxis based on
best evidence, there are few efforts documenting feedback as to the
success of these efforts. In this document, we review the key unmet
needs related to the diagnosis and management of anaphylaxis, propose a
public health initiative for prevention measures and a timetable action
plan which intends to strengthen the collaboration among health
professionals and especially primary care physicians dealing with
anaphylaxis that can encourage enhanced quality of care of patients with
anaphylaxis. More than calling for harmonized action for best management
of anaphylaxis to prevent undue morbidity and mortality, the Montpellier
World Health Organization Collaborating Centre here proposes an action
plan as a baseline for a global initiative against anaphylaxis. We
strongly believe these collaborative efforts are a strong public health
and societal priority that is consistent with the overarching goals of
providing optimal care of allergic patients and best practices of
allergology.