Death of Michel Blanc: anaphylactic shock, a rare allergic reaction, but which can be fatal

“An allergy to a medication” after a routine medical examination. This is what led, according to actor Gérard Jugnot, to the death of his friend Michel Blanc. The actor died on Friday due to anaphylactic shock, a rare allergic reaction , but violent, which can lead to death in a few minutes.

Anaphylactic shock corresponds to “the most severe form of anaphylaxis“, herself”the most severe and dangerous manifestation of allergy”describes a sheet on the Inserm website. Potentially fatal, this is an absolute medical emergency. Anaphylaxis is caused by “inappropriate activation” of certain cells of the immune system, “which causes in a few seconds/minutes a massive release of histamine, the molecule at the origin of the symptoms“, still according to Inserm.

Several allergens causing anaphylactic shock

Symptoms most often appear very quickly, within minutes of contact with the allergen. One or more organs may be affected, with varying intensity: hives, facial edema and Quincke’s edema, breathing difficulties, asthma attack, digestive signs, malaise, loss of consciousness, even coma.

The most common allergens causing anaphylactic shock are foods (60%), bee, wasp and hornet venoms (16%), medications (16%) and latex, according to the ‘Inserm. As with food, any medication can cause a hypersensitivity reaction in a patient.

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Quincke’s edema results in rapid swelling of the skin and mucous membranes of the head and neck. If it is accompanied by breathing difficulties, discomfort or digestive symptoms, it must be treated urgently. If anaphylaxis is suspected, emergency services must be contacted immediately and the first emergency measures performed. For anaphylactic shock, the only first-line medication is injectable adrenaline. The patient may subsequently receive corticosteroids and antihistamines to possibly reduce the symptoms.