What is the definition of anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is defined as a systemic response to an antigen that involves two or more organ systems. This severe allergic reaction can potentially lead to life-threatening symptoms affecting multiple parts of the body, including the respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and integumentary systems. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and throat, rapid heart rate, a drop in blood pressure, abdominal pain, and hives or rash. Recognizing the multi-system involvement is key to diagnosing and treating anaphylaxis effectively, as it requires prompt medical intervention, typically with epinephrine, to mitigate the physiological effects and prevent further deterioration of the patient's condition.