What are key signs of anaphylaxis in a child?

• A. Gradual onset of symptoms with skin itching.
• B. Abdominal pain without airway symptoms.
• C. Allergy with no respiratory symptoms.
• D. Sudden airway compromise and breathing difficulty, skin symptoms, hypotension or shock, and GI symptoms.

Answer: (D)

Anaphylaxis is a rapid, life-threatening allergic reaction that involves multiple body systems. The best answer describes a sudden airway problem (airway compromise and breathing difficulty) along with skin signs and signs of poor circulation (hypotension or shock) plus gastrointestinal symptoms. This combination—airway/breathing involvement, skin manifestations, and circulatory signs after exposure to an allergen—defines anaphylaxis in a child.

If a child only has abdominal pain without airway symptoms, or has allergy with no respiratory involvement, or shows only mild skin itching without systemic symptoms, those do not meet the criteria for anaphylaxis. The key concept is the rapid progression to multi-system involvement after an allergen exposure.