Characterization of cardiovascular events mediated by platelet activating factor during systemic anaphylaxis

We attempted to unmask the effects of platelet activating factor (PAF) on cardiovascular function during anaphylactic shock state development by antagonizing the actions of histamine with combined administration of H1- and H2-receptor antagonists. The effects of PAF were characterized by a specific PAF antagonist. Monitoring of the hemodynamic parameters was performed until 30 min after onset of anaphylactic reactions.