A 70-year-old man was administered penicillin intravenously. Within 5 minutes, he developed generalized uicaria, swelling of lips, hypotension and bronchospasm. The first choice of treatment is to administer –
**Core Concept**
The underlying principle being tested is anaphylaxis, a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Anaphylaxis is mediated by **IgE antibodies** and involves the release of **histamine** and other chemical mediators from **mast cells**.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is not provided, but the first line of treatment for anaphylaxis typically involves the administration of **epinephrine (adrenaline)**, which helps to rapidly relieve symptoms by reducing **bronchospasm**, improving **cardiovascular function**, and decreasing **capillary permeability**.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Without the specific option provided, it's challenging to give a precise reason, but any option not involving immediate administration of epinephrine or another rapidly acting agent to counteract anaphylaxis would be incorrect.
**Option B:** Similarly, without specifics, any choice that does not address the urgent need to reverse anaphylactic symptoms would be wrong.
**Option C:** This would be incorrect if it suggested a treatment that is not immediately effective in anaphylaxis.
**Option D:** Any option that delays the administration of epinephrine or suggests an alternative that is not as effective in the acute management of anaphylaxis would be incorrect.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that **epinephrine** is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, and it should be administered promptly via an **intramuscular** route, typically in the mid-outer aspect of the thigh.
**Correct Answer:** Not provided in the query.