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Clinical Reviews in Allergy & Immunology
Published in: Clinical Reviews in Allergy & Immunology 3/2018

01-06-2018

The Epidemiology of Anaphylaxis

Authors: Joyce E. Yu, Robert Y. Lin

Published in: Clinical Reviews in Allergy & Immunology | Issue 3/2018

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Abstract

Anaphylaxis is a dramatic expression of systemic allergy. The lifetime prevalence of anaphylaxis is currently estimated at 0.05–2 % in the USA and ~3 % in Europe. Several population-specific studies have noted a rise in the incidence, particularly in the hospitalizations and ER visits due to anaphylaxis. The variable signs and symptoms that constitute the diagnostic criteria for anaphylaxis, the differences in diagnostic algorithms, and the limitations in the current coding systems have made summarizing epidemiologic data and comparing study results challenging. Nevertheless, across all studies, the most common triggers continue to be medications, food, and venom. Various risk factors for more severe reactions generally include older age, history of asthma, and having more comorbid diseases. Interesting seasonal, geographic, and latitude differences have been observed in anaphylaxis prevalence and incidence rates, suggesting a possible role of vitamin D and sun exposure in modifying anaphylaxis risk. While the incidence and prevalence of anaphylaxis appear to be increasing in certain populations, the overall fatality rate remains relatively low.
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Metadata
Title
The Epidemiology of Anaphylaxis
Authors
Joyce E. Yu
Robert Y. Lin
Publication date
01-06-2018
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Clinical Reviews in Allergy & Immunology / Issue 3/2018
Print ISSN: 1080-0549
Electronic ISSN: 1559-0267
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12016-015-8503-x

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