Dentists' knowledge about anaphylaxis caused by local anaesthetics.

BACKGROUND

IgE-mediated systemic reactions to local anaesthetics may be seen--although rarely--by dentists. However, it is not known whether dentists are familiar with symptoms, signs and management of anaphylaxis.

METHODS

In this study we aimed to evaluate knowledge of dentists of the symptoms and signs and current treatment of anaphylaxis. For this, some dentists working in their private offices in Istanbul were asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire with 15 questions related to anaphylaxis.

RESULTS

A total of 86 dentists agreed to participate in the study. None of the attendants were completely aware of the symptoms and signs of anaphylaxis. About half of the attendants (48.8%) knew epinephrine as the first drug in the treatment of anaphylaxis and keep it in their offices (55.6%), but only one third of the dentists (31.5%) preferred intramuscular route as the most effective route for epinephrine injection.

CONCLUSION

Our data show that the level of dentists' knowledge of local anaesthetics allergy and anaphylaxis is inadequate. This may endanger patients' lives. An educational programme that may improve general dentists' knowledge about local anaesthetics allergy and anaphylaxis is urgently necessary.