Desensitization is possible in a controlled environment. Non IgE - vancomycin, polymyxins. Immunotherapy is maintained at 100 micrograms per antigen for 60 months. Specific IgE and IgG titers can then help predict continued need for therapy. To document safety of a particular agent provocative skin testing can be performed.
Fatalities usually occur in victims with prior knowledge i.e., past anaphylaxis.
Usually it is a meal away from home, with alcohol, denial, reliance on p.o. antihistamines and no Epi-Pen. Reactions are secondary to anaphylatoxin production. Pretreatment with antihistamines 50mg IM l hr. Reaction is not related to iodine. Atopics allergic to shellfish have a slightly increased risk.