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Anaphylaxis to deer dander in a child: a case report
D J Amrol1, J W Georgitis, D P Dunagan
1Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.
Summary
This study reports the youngest case of anaphylaxis due to deer dander exposure in a 4-year-old boy. It highlights the potential for severe allergic reactions to wild animals, even in children.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Pediatric Allergy
- Environmental Allergens
Background:
- Hypersensitivity to deer dander is infrequently documented, with limited case reports.
- This case represents the youngest patient diagnosed with deer dander allergy and the first instance of anaphylaxis from direct contact with a live deer.
Observation:
- A 4-year-old boy presented with acute anaphylaxis, including urticaria, edema, and respiratory distress, after exposure to a deer.
- A prior, milder reaction occurred five days before the severe event following indirect exposure.
Findings:
- Diagnostic testing confirmed IgE-mediated hypersensitivity to deer dander.
- Skin prick tests and RAST (Radioallergosorbent test) indicated reactivity to both deer and cattle allergens.
Implications:
- This case underscores that hypersensitivity to wild animal allergens can precipitate life-threatening anaphylaxis in pediatric populations.
- The possibility of passive antigen transfer warrants further research in understanding animal dander allergies.
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