Anaphylactic Shock Vocabulary

Flashcards on Anaphylactic Shock

The most severe and life-threatening manifestation of anaphylaxis, a rapid-onset systemic type I hypersensitivity reaction.

Anaphylactic Shock

Mast Cells and Basophils

Cells that release chemical mediators such as histamine, leukotrienes, prostaglandins, and cytokines, leading to widespread vasodilation, increased capillary permeability, bronchoconstriction, and smooth muscle contraction.

Histamine

A mediator that causes vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, bronchoconstriction, and pruritus.

Leukotrienes

Mediators that lead to sustained bronchoconstriction, increased permeability, and mucus secretion.

Prostaglandin D2

A mediator that contributes to bronchospasm and vasodilation.

Cytokines

Mediators such as TNF-α that recruit additional immune cells and amplify the inflammatory response.

Urticaria

Hives; one of the most common early signs of anaphylaxis, resulting from vasodilation and capillary leak in the dermis.

Angioedema

Painless swelling of the lips, tongue, eyelids, and face due to activation of deeper dermal vessels.

Hypotension

Low blood pressure; a defining feature of anaphylactic shock caused by systemic vasodilation and increased vascular permeability.

Tachycardia

Increased heart rate; a compensatory mechanism in response to hypotension during anaphylactic shock.

Pruritus

Itchy rash; an early sign of anaphylaxis reflecting cutaneous involvement due to the rapid release of histamine and other mediators.

Dyspnea

Shortness of breath; indicates respiratory involvement in anaphylaxis resulting from bronchospasm and airway edema.

Tachypnea

Increased respiratory rate; a compensatory response to airway obstruction during anaphylaxis.

Epinephrine

Primary emergency medication used during anaphylaxis; stimulates alpha and beta adrenergic receptors, causing vasoconstriction, increased heart rate, and bronchodilation.

Vasopressors

Medications used to raise dangerously low blood pressure by stimulating alpha-1 adrenergic receptors which constrict blood vessels and beta-1 receptors which strengthen heart contractions.

Bronchodilators

Medications that help ease breathing by relaxing the muscles around the airways, allowing them to widen and let more air in and out of the lungs