Anaphylaxis, Urticaria, and Angioedema

• All patients at risk for anaphylaxis should carry the appropriately dosed epinephrine pen and be taught when and how to use the device. • The causes of acute and chronic urticaria overlap, but often the specific cause is not found in cases of chronic urticaria. The mainstay of therapy for both acute and chronic urticaria is antihistamines. • Food allergy is increasing in prevalence, especially in children. Food allergies to peanut, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish are usually life-long. Food allergies to milk, egg, soy, and wheat usually are outgrown by the first decade of life. It is important to identify the children who may be candidates for oral food challenges.