Elizabeth's symptoms suggest she is experiencing anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction to an insect sting. Immediate administration of epinephrine is critical, followed by antihistamines and corticosteroids.
Anaphylaxis Diagnosis
The most likely diagnosis for Elizabeth, a 14-year-old female who was stung by an unknown insect and is exhibiting symptoms like hives, difficulty talking due to tongue swelling, wheezing, feeling faint, light-headedness, tachycardia, and hypotension, is anaphylaxis. This is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. The administration of epinephrine is crucial in treating anaphylactic shock, as it helps to constrict blood vessels to increase blood pressure, relax smooth muscles in the lungs, modulate heart rate, and reduce swelling. Follow-up treatment would typically include antihistamines and corticosteroids to prevent potential late-phase reactions.
Complete question is:
What is the most likely diagnosis for Elizabeth, a 14-year-old female brought to the ER after being stung by an unknown insect on her right arm while hiking in the woods? She presents with a red and swollen sting site, hives spreading to the neck and trunk, difficulty talking due to tongue swelling, wheezing, feeling faint, light-headedness, tachycardia, and hypotension.