anaphylaxis

noun

ana·​phy·​lax·​is ˌa-nə-fə-ˈlak-səs 

plural anaphylaxes ˌa-nə-fə-ˈlak-ˌsēz 

1

: hypersensitivity (as to foreign proteins or drugs) resulting from sensitization following prior contact with the causative agent

2

: anaphylactic shock

Examples of anaphylaxis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Severe adverse reactions will lead to a complication called anaphylaxis that can be fatal. —Chris Smith, BGR, 1 Nov. 2022

In rare cases a gnat bite can cause a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. —Anna Kaufman, USA TODAY, 19 July 2022

But Abby had gone through a terrifying episode of anaphylaxis while taking PEG-asparaginase. —Brenda Goodman, CNN, 29 Dec. 2022

Finally, one important cluster of symptoms to be aware of is anaphylaxis, Dr. Tam says. —Lauren Krouse, SELF, 1 June 2022

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from ana- + prophylaxis

First Known Use

circa 1905, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

anaphylaxis

noun

ana·​phy·​lax·​is ˌan-ə-fə-ˈlak-səs 

plural anaphylaxes -ˌsēz 

1

: hypersensitivity (as to foreign proteins or drugs) resulting from sensitization following prior contact with the causative agent

2

: anaphylactic shock