Algorithms for the diagnosis and management of idiopathic anaphylaxis.

A major approach to the prevention of anaphylaxis due to exposure to an allergen is avoidance of the allergens. In cases of idiopathic anaphylaxis (IA), the method of management must first be pharmacologic control of the acute episode of IA and then the prevention of recurrent episodes. The appropriate management requires diagnosis, classification, and immediate initiation of a treatment regimen that will control and then induce a remission in patients with IA of the frequent (F) type. The classification and management of IA are reviewed and algorithms are presented for initial and long-term management of patients with IA.