This document provides information on anaphylaxis, including its historical background, definitions, epidemiology, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment. It was discovered in 1902 by scientists attempting to immunize dogs to sea anemone venom. They unexpectedly sensitized the dogs, who reacted to a later nonlethal dose. Anaphylaxis is an immediate hypersensitivity reaction mediated by IgE or other non-IgE mechanisms, causing symptoms in multiple organ systems. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment and works through alpha and beta receptor agonism to reverse symptoms and prevent further mediator release.