Cashew nut allergy is on the rise, Ana o 3 IgE seems to be the best single test to diagnose cashew allergy. Cashew nut belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, along with pistachio nut and mango. Cashew and pistachio nut cross-react both in IgE testing and clinically. Cashew nut is typically consumed as a snack and […]
Xolair for Idiopathic Anaphylaxis
Xolair for idiopathic anaphylaxis was recently studied in a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study. We have discussed idiopathic anaphylaxis in the past in a blog post. It is a diagnosis of exclusion, so there is no inciting agent. Epinephrine followed by systemic steroids are the mainstays of therapy for acute events. There is no prophylactic therapy […]
Moderna Covid Vaccine and Allergy
Currently there is 1 report of the Moderna Covid vaccine and allergy reactions. Earlier we wrote regarding the Pfizer Covid vaccine and allergic reactions. So far in regards to the Pfizer vaccine a total of 6 cases in the U.S. have been reported and 2 in the U.K. The current statistics through December 19th, were […]
Semen allergy an overview and treatment
Semen allergy or seminal plasma hypersensitivity (SPH) presents with a localized vaginal and/or systemic allergic symptoms on exposure to its protein components. Although the true incidence is unclear, its is likely underdiagnosed but an important cause of vaginal swelling and pain during/after intercourse. Systemic allergic reactions can happen that may even require the use of […]
Which is easier to use, Epipen or Auvi-Q?
Anaphylaxis is a serious and potentially life-threatening systemic allergic reaction that can be induced by allergens such as food, medication and insect stings. Current guidelines recommend epinephrine as first-line treatment of anaphylaxis. Epinephrine auto-injectors are recommend for patients to carry to those who are at risk. Studies have shown that patients and caregivers sometimes incorrectly […]
Auvi-Q 0.1 mg for infants and toddlers
Auvi-Q 0.1 mg is being used for children weighing 16.5 to 33 pounds. In a previous post we discussed this when it first came out. Auvi-Q 0.1 mg dose approved for infants and children The Auvi-Q 0.1 mg has a smaller needle length and there is less risk of hitting a bone, which could result […]
Bethenny Frankel Suffers Allergic Reaction
Bethenny Frankel from the hit reality show, Real Housewives of New York, suffered what was reported an anaphylactic episode. In a previous season of her show, she had a reaction after eating fish, she has stated that she has a rare fish allergy. This most recent episode occurred after eating soup which contained fish in […]
When multiple epinephrine doses are needed for food anaphylaxis
Multiple epinephrine dosages are sometimes need for anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially fatal allergic reaction. Intramuscular epinephrine is the recommended treatment in the the setting of anaphylaxis and the current recommendation is for patients to carry 2 doses of self-injectable epinephrine. Previous studies have evaluated food-induced allergic reactions that require multiple epinephrine injections in […]
Pectin Allergy, a potential hidden food allergen
Pectin allergy is not very common, but it can be a source of allergy for patients sensitive to cashew and pistachio. Food allergy is estimated to affect 6-8% of children in the United states and it is associated with a risk of anaphylaxis. Despite avoidance to culprit foods, hidden allergens can be a source of […]
Are Two EpiPens Really Necessary?
Having two epipens has become more difficult for patients due to recent shortages, rising prices and manufacturing difficulties. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by skin, respiratory and gastrointestinal allergy symptoms with a rapid onset. Anaphylaxis affects both adults and children and it can occur up to 2% of the population. Among pediatrics, the […]