What patient population is at highest risk for anaphylaxis?

Individuals with known allergies are indeed at the highest risk for anaphylaxis because they have a history of allergic reactions that could lead to severe, life-threatening responses when exposed to specific allergens. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can occur rapidly and involves multiple systems in the body.

This patient population has likely experienced previous reactions and may already exhibit hypersensitivity to certain triggers such as foods, medications, insect stings, or latex. Their immune system is primed to respond aggressively upon re-exposure to these allergens, making them particularly vulnerable to an anaphylactic episode.

Other groups, such as healthy adults, children with asthma, or patients with diabetes, may also have risks associated with their conditions, but they do not inherently have the heightened predisposition to anaphylaxis like those with known allergies do. Understanding the significance of allergy history is crucial in assessing risk and implementing appropriate precautions or interventions in healthcare settings.