Caracterización clínica de pacientes pediátricos con anafilaxia internados en el Hospital Dr. Roberto Gilbert Elizalde, desde enero 2013 a diciembre 2025.

Abstract

Introduction: Anaphylaxis is the most severe systemic allergic manifestation in pediatrics, and its clinical characterization is fundamental for optimizing diagnosis and timely management. Methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, and retrospective study based on a review of the medical records of patients under 18 years of age diagnosed with anaphylaxis. Results: A total of 80 patients were included over a 13-year study period. The prevalence was male (65%, n=52) and school-aged (3%, n=31), with an average age of 10 years. Medications were the main etiological agent at 53% (n=43), followed by food at 29% (n=23). The predominant comorbidities were allergic rhinitis (37%, n=18) and asthma (23%, n=11). Clinically, the most affected systems were the dermatological (96%; n=77: angioedema 36%), respiratory (81%; n=65: dyspnea 52%), digestive (36%; n=29: vomiting 39%), and cardiovascular (34%; n=27: tachycardia 49%). Adrenaline was the treatment of choice in 90% (n=72) of cases, supplemented with corticosteroids in 65% (n=52) and antihistamines in 88% (n=70). However, the use of epinephrine auto-injectors was almost nonexistent (only 1 case), highlighting a gap in caregivers' knowledge. The observation period exceeded 6 hours in 88% (n=70) of cases, with an average of 18 hours, and a hospital stay of 1 to 2 days in 84% (n=67). Finally, a low follow-up rate by the Allergy specialty after discharge was identified, at 40% (n=32). Conclusions: Anaphylaxis in this population is mainly caused by medications and primarily affects school-aged boys. There is a critical need to improve health education regarding the use of epinephrine auto-injectors and to strengthen the referral system to specialized outpatient care to prevent recurrences.