What causes systemic anaphylaxis?
A release of mediators cause blood vessels to enlarge which will drop blood pressure- this is usually in response to injected antigens such as vaccines – can also be from ingested products like peanuts
Systemic anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs when the immune system overreacts to an allergen, resulting in a widespread release of chemicals that can cause shock and multiple organ failure. The allergens that commonly trigger this reaction includes foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, and eggs; medications like penicillin and sulfonamides; insect stings or bites; and latex.
When a person comes in contact with an allergen, their immune system produces immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies which bind to specific cells called mast cells and basophils. This triggers a release of chemicals like histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins, which cause symptoms such as itching, swelling, and hives around the area of contact.
If the allergen enters the bloodstream or is inhaled, the systemic reaction occurs. Histamine and other chemicals released from the mast cells and basophils cause blood vessels to dilate, which leads to a drop in blood pressure, a loss of fluids from the bloodstream, and constriction of airways making it difficult to breathe.
In summary, systemic anaphylaxis is caused by an exaggerated immune response to an allergen resulting in the release of chemicals that can cause a systemic reaction affecting multiple organ systems in the body leading to a potentially life-threatening situation.
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Localized Anaphylaxis: Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors