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Anaphylaxis — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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EasyEmergency PaediatricsAnaphylaxisRACP Paediatrics

A 5-year-old child presents with sudden onset urticaria, lip swelling, wheeze, and hypotension after eating a peanut-containing snack. What is the first-line treatment?

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Correct answer: C — Intramuscular adrenaline 0.01 mg/kg (1:1000) into the lateral thigh

Anaphylaxis requires immediate intramuscular adrenaline (epinephrine) as first-line treatment. The dose is 0.01 mg/kg of 1:1000 (1 mg/mL) solution, given IM into the anterolateral thigh (maximum 0.5 mg). This can be repeated every 5 minutes if needed. Adjunctive treatments include IV fluids, salbutamol for wheeze, and corticosteroids to prevent biphasic reactions. Antihistamines do not treat anaphylaxis.

Reference: ASCIA – 2024 – Anaphylaxis Guidelines