An immediate systemic allergic reaction to a foreign protein or other substance. The reaction results from the release of histamine, serotonin and other vasoactive substances when allergen combines with IgE antibodies on mast cell surfaces. Mast cell mediators affect more than one organ. Subsequent flow of fluid from the circulatory system as a result of mast cell histamine release can have a local manifestation of hives, or local swelling and rednesss or a sudden blood pressure drop and rapid heart rate with possible fatal acute systemic shock. (e.g., peanut, penicillin, egg or Hevea natural rubber latex allergy)
Letter: a
A natural communication between blood vessels, either directly or by means of connecting channels. Various anastomoses in coronary circulation provide collateral circulatory routes so that blood can reach a particular part of the heart through alternate pathways.
Hypoxia caused by a reduction in the amount of hemoglobin available for gas transport, because of reduced production of red blood cells, increased loss of red blood cells, or the presence of defective hemoglobin (e.g., methemoglobin, carboxyhemoglobin).
Lack of activity; or an immunodeficient or immune depressed condition. For example, trauma patients experience an immunologic anergy for 7-14 days post-traumatic event, increasing their risk for acquiring an infection.
Partial or complete loss of sensation, with or without loss of consciousness, as a result of disease, injury, or administration of pharmacologic agents. Regional: induced by injection of local anesthetic into a particular area of the body. General: that is complete; affecting the entire body, with loss of consciousness when the anesthetic acts on the brain.
Dilation or ballooning of a portion of the wall of an artery.
American Hospital Association
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
Artificial Intelligence
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome