A case with recurrent idiopathic anaphylaxis episodes starting soon after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination

Allergol Immunopathol (Madr). 2024 Nov 1;52(6):58-61. doi: 10.15586/aei.v52i6.1191. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

Introduction: A patient was presented with a history of idiopathic recurrent anaphylaxis after administration of Pfizer BioNTech mRNA vaccine, and the attacks were controlled with omalizumab. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of recurrent idiopathic anaphylaxis (IA) after administration of Pfizer BioNTech mRNA vaccine.

Case presentation: A 52-year-old man with recurrent episodes of IA after COVID-19 vaccination presented to our adult Allergy and Immunology Clinic. In the patient, urticaria and anaphylaxis episodes could not be controlled with high-dose antihistamine and systemic steroid treatment, and complete control was achieved with omalizumab treatment and anaphylaxis attacks completely regressed.

Conclusion: In cases of unexplained or recurrent anaphylaxis in adult patients, COVID-19 vaccination and timing should be questioned, and its association with anaphylaxis might be considered.

Keywords: COVID-19 Vaccine; Idiopathic Anaphylaxis; Omalizumab.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anaphylaxis* / chemically induced
  • Anaphylaxis* / diagnosis
  • Anti-Allergic Agents / therapeutic use
  • BNT162 Vaccine* / adverse effects
  • COVID-19* / complications
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Omalizumab / therapeutic use
  • Recurrence
  • Vaccination / adverse effects

Substances

  • Anti-Allergic Agents
  • BNT162 Vaccine
  • Omalizumab