anaphylaxis

anaphylaxis definition - medical

an·a·phy·lax·is (ănˌə-fə-lăkˈsĭs)

noun pl. an·a·phy·lax·es (-lăkˈsēz)
  1. Hypersensitivity induced by preliminary exposure to a substance and usually producing a contraction of smooth muscle and a dilation of blood vessels.
  2. See anaphylactic shock.

Related Forms:

  • anˌa·phy·lacˈtic (-lăkˈtĭk) adjective

The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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