16/07/2025
This week for "๐๐ก๐๐ญ'๐ฌ ๐๐ก๐๐ญ? ๐๐๐๐ง๐๐ฌ๐๐๐ฒ" let's talk about anaphylaxis!
Anaphylaxis is a severe, rapidly progressing allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. It's a hypersensitivity disorder affecting multiple body systems and can occur in both humans and pets after exposure to a strong allergen. In pets, common causes include insect bites or stings, reactions to medications or vaccinations, chemical exposure, and food protein hypersensitivity. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.
We recently had a special patient named Doc who was treated for anaphylaxis. Doc was brought to Metropolitan Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Service (MVSES) after suddenly vomiting, licking his paw, and collapsing at the dog park. Based on his history, physical exam, and diagnostic tests, Doc was diagnosed with an anaphylactic reaction, most likely due to an environmental allergen (like an insect or spider bite on his foot) he encountered at the park.
This hypersensitivity reaction caused issues with Doc's blood vessels, leading to bleeding into his abdomen and an irregular heartbeat. Doc was hospitalized in the MVSES ICU, where he received 24 hour care, IV fluids, IV medications, and even a fresh frozen plasma transfusion. Thanks to his owners' quick thinking and the dedicated MVSES team, Doc was successfully treated and was able to return home with his family after a short hospitalization!
Doc's story serves to remind us how surviving anaphylaxis is no walk in the park!