Reported fish allergy prevalence varies widely, with an estimated prevalence of 0.2% in the general population. Sensitization to fish can occur by ingestion, skin contact or inhalation. The manifestations can be IgE or non-IgE mediated. Several fish allergens have been identified, with parvalbumins being the major allergen in various species. Allergenicity varies among fish species and is affected by processing or preparation methods. Adverse reactions after eating fish are often claimed to be 'allergy' but could be a reaction to hidden food allergen, fish parasite, fish toxins or histamine in spoiled fish. Identifying such causes would allow free consumption of fish. Correct diagnosis of fish allergy, including the specific species, might provide the patient with safe alternatives. Patients have been generally advised for strict universal avoidance of fish. However, testing with various fish species or preparations might identify one or more forms that can be tolerated.
Anemia can be caused by, or be associated with, many clinical conditions, including pulmonary diseases, some of which are rare and can be misdiagnosed. Nontraumatic pulmonary bleeding may be caused by a variety of conditions and results in anemia and pulmonary hemosiderosis, even when it is subtle. The differential diagnosis in such cases is extensive. We present the case of a diagnostic dilemma in a 17-month-old child hospitalized for severe anemia and respiratory distress in which the diagnosis was settled through an allergy/immunology consultation.
NSAIDs are the most commonly used medications worldwide and are responsible for almost 25% of adverse drug reactions. Such reactions can have different manifestations and can be immunologic or non-immunologic. The diagnosis is primarily based on the medical history, which can be difficult in patients receiving multiple medications. Because skin testing and blood tests are not valid for NSAIDs reactions, confirmation requires an appropriately-designed challenge. The latter could be avoided when the history is obvious and the reaction is life-threatening. The challenge route can be oral, nasal, or bronchial. Avoidance of the causative NSAID, often associated with the avoidance of the cross-reacting preparations, is the cornerstone of management. In most cases, a safe substitute can be used. When treatment with the causative NSAID is necessary, titrated desensitization can be performed. This review discusses the classes of NSAIDs, mechanisms of their adverse reactions, manifestations, diagnosis, and management.
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