Pathophysiology

Interaction of a foreign antigen with specific IgE antibodies found on the surface membrane of mast cells
and peripheral blood basophils. Release of histamine and other bioactive mediators causes activation of
platelets, eosinophils, and neutrophils. Histamine, prostaglandins, and inflammatory leukotrienes are
potent vasoactive mediators that are implicated in the vascular permeability changes, flushing, urticaria,
angioedema, hypotension, and bronchoconstriction that characterize anaphylaxis. Smooth muscle
spasm, bronchospasm, mucosal edema and inflammation, and increased capillary permeability result.
Systemic changes characteristically produce clinical manifestations within seconds or minutes after
antigen exposure.