You are called to a residence for a 60-year-old male complaining of chest pain.You find the patient seated in bed.His past medical history includes hypertension and high cholesterol.The patient presents with hives over the chest,stridor,a swollen tongue,and wheezing in the upper fields.He denies any shortness of breath or respiratory distress,but does so in short two to three word statements.What condition do you suspect?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's presentation is consistent with anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction. The presence of hives, stridor, swollen tongue, and wheezing are all signs of anaphylaxis. While chest pain can also be a symptom of anaphylaxis, it is not always present. The patient's short statements also suggest difficulty speaking, which can be a sign of anaphylaxis-induced airway obstruction. Asthma, acute myocardial infarction, and angina pectoris are all possible differentials, but given the patient's presentation, anaphylaxis is the most likely diagnosis. Immediate treatment with epinephrine and transport to the hospital is necessary.

You Are Called to a Residence for a 60-Year-Old Male