The awareness of anaphylaxis reaction to local anesthesia in Dentistry

Background: Anaphylaxis is one of the rare clinical events specifically related to anesthesia leading to morbidity and mortality. In this manner, the aim of our study was to determine knowledge of Iranian dentists about symptom, sign and management of anaphylaxis to local anesthesia. Methods: The study was designed with a questionnaire (16 questions) related to anaphylaxis to local anesthesia in Iran. The dentists working in their private office and clinic of medical dentist randomly selected and asked to complete questionnaire. Results: 72% of dentists accepted to take part in the study. Although all attendants knew one or more symptoms and signs of anaphylaxis but none of them marked all options related to anaphylaxis. In relation to, about 72.9% of dentists knew epinephrine as the first choice in the treatment of anaphylaxis shock, but only 20% of them had kept emergency equipments and facilities such as drugs in their offices to treat shock. This study showed that less than 10% of the dentists were aware of the recommended dose of epinephrine to use in adults or children. Conclusion: Our study concludes that some of dentists are not aware of this emergency vital clinical condition. Therefore, dentists should be developed their knowledge on the subject of the causes and treatment of anaphylaxis shock alternatively with attendance in related courses which holding by academic centers.