This document provides information about anaphylaxis, including:
1. It was discovered in 1902 by Portier and Richet while attempting to immunize dogs to sea anemone venom. The dogs unexpectedly reacted to a previously nonlethal dose, coining the term "anaphylaxis".
2. Anaphylaxis is a systemic, immediate hypersensitivity reaction caused by IgE-mediated release of histamine and other mediators from mast cells and basophils, presenting with multi-organ symptoms.
3. Epidemiology studies found hospitalization rates of anaphylaxis to be around 3.2 cases per 100,000 people per year, with a 5% mortality rate.