Acute management of anaphylaxis in pregnancy

• Published in: Australian journal of general practice Vol. 51; no. 6; pp. 405 - 408
• Main Authors: Tan, Elina, O'Sullivan, Michael, Crozier, Tim, Kolawole, Helen, Mantas, Stav, Said, Maria, Rueter, Kristina, Frith, Katie, Barnes, Sara
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Sydney Royal Australian College of General Practitioners 01.06.2022
• Subjects: Allergy; Anaphylaxis; Anaphylaxis - diagnosis; Anaphylaxis - drug therapy; Complications; Epinephrine - therapeutic use; Female; Humans; Immunology; Infant, Newborn; Medical care; Methodology; Pregnancy; Pregnant women; Risk factors; Treatment
• ISSN: 2208-7958; 2208-794X; 2208-7958
• DOI: 10.31128/AJGP-03-21-5918

Background: Anaphylaxis in pregnancy is rare but can potentially be associated with significant morbidity and mortality for the mother, fetus and neonate. With appropriate and timely management, even severe anaphylaxis can be managed with excellent maternal and fetal outcomes. Objective: The aim of this article is to provide an illustrative case and highlight current recommendations for diagnosis and management of acute maternal anaphylaxis, which have recently been reviewed and developed into a guideline by the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy. Discussion: An understanding of management of anaphylaxis in pregnancy is essential knowledge in the general practice setting. The recommended dosage and administration of adrenaline (epinephrine) for anaphylaxis is the same in pregnant and non-pregnant patients: 0.5 mg adrenaline intramuscularly in the midouter thigh (or dose of 0.01 mg/kg if <50 kg). The use of adrenaline in maternal anaphylaxis is supported by various international guidelines.