What term describes a severe allergic reaction that can be fatal?

• A. Anaphylaxis
• B. Asthma
• C. Shock
• D. Sepsis

Answer: (A)

Anaphylaxis is a rapid, life-threatening systemic allergic reaction. When exposed to an allergen, the body releases mediators like histamine that trigger widespread effects: swelling and narrowing of the airways, hives, swelling of the lips or tongue, bronchoconstriction, dizziness or fainting from a drop in blood pressure. This quick, multi-organ involvement is what makes it potentially fatal if not treated immediately. While asthma can involve severe breathing difficulty, it is a chronic airway condition and not the same acute, systemic emergency; shock describes a state of inadequate blood flow that can result from anaphylaxis but isn’t the specific reaction itself; sepsis is an infection-driven systemic response, not an allergic reaction. In emergencies, recognizing anaphylaxis prompts rapid administration of epinephrine and urgent transport.