The frequency and characteristics of epinephrine use during in-flight allergic events.

Background: Allergic reactions account for 2% to 4% of medical events in-flight and 5.5% of all medical events in passengers 18 years and under.

Objective: To evaluate the incidence of in-flight allergic events including availability, use of epinephrine, and final patient outcome.

Exercise-induced anaphylaxis: a case report and review of the diagnosis and treatment of a rare but potentially life-threatening syndrome.

A 24-year-old male Marine with an uncomplicated medical history and a long history of strenuous, daily exercise presented to the emergency department after experiencing anaphylactic shock while running. Symptoms resolved following administration of intramuscular diphenhydramine, ranitidine, intravenous methylprednisolone, and intravenous fluids. On followup in the allergy clinic, a meticulous clinical history was obtained which elucidated a picture consistent with exercise-induced anaphylaxis.

Implications of venom hypersensitivity for a deploying soldier.

Venom immunotherapy (VIT) is a life-saving medical treatment for individuals allergic to Hymenoptera species. Delivery of VIT is a complex process that requires proper extract preparation, shipping, storage, refrigeration, and administration by qualified medical personnel in a facility that can manage a life-threatening allergic emergency (anaphylaxis). Successful VIT requires 3 to 5 years of uninterrupted maintenance injections, which may be difficult to maintain during deployments, particularly in combat operations.