Definitions for "anaphylactic shock"
a severe form of physiological shock, often having a fatal outcome, caused by an extreme immunological reaction to antigens. It is a severe form of anaphylaxis{2}, and is characterized by smooth muscle contraction and capillary dilation throughout the body, initiated by antibodies of the IgE class. It is usually seen when an antigen to which a person has become hypersensitized is injected intravenously or subcutaneously. It is also called generalyzed anaphylaxis or systemic anaphylaxis, and sometimes anaphylaxis.
A precipitous drop in blood pressure caused by loss of fluid from capillaries because of an increase in their permeability stimulated by an allergic reaction.
an extremely serious, systemic allergic reaction* which, if not treated immediately, can result in cardiovascular difficulties. An emergency injection of epinephrine is necessary.
An adverse response to a foreign protein (e.g. a vaccine) to which the individual has previously been exposed.