A case report of breastfeeding anaphylaxis: successful prophylaxis with oral antihistamines

Anaphylaxis during pregnancy

“…Anaphylaxis during breast-feeding is reported to be amplified in some women by concurrent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. 8,9,28 Rapid change in progesterone levels might be important because increased progesterone levels during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy are also rarely associated with anaphylaxis that is relieved by delivery. 29 …”

“…When breastfeeding-related anaphylaxis occurs in successive pregnancies, prophylaxis with an H 1 -antihistamine, a glucocorticoid, or both has been successful. 9 Communication with other health care professionals…”

“…1 The allergy/immunology literature includes few publications about anaphylaxis during pregnancy, [2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9] and only a few allergy/immunology guidelines or practice parameters mention pregnancy. 10,11 The true incidence of anaphylaxis during pregnancy is unknown.…”

Breast milk: friend or foe?

“…However, one case reported no symptoms with the first child but developed anaphylaxis associated with breastfeeding with her second and third child 5. Skin prick testing to breast milk has been negative in previous reports4 and in our patient.…”

Breast milk: friend or FOE?

“…2 -4 However, one case reported no symptoms with the fi rst child but developed anaphylaxis associated with breastfeeding with her second and third child. 5 Skin prick testing to breast milk has been negative in previous reports 4 and in our patient. IgE mediated allergy is thus unlikely.…”