Case report: 30-yr-old female with exercise induced anaphylaxis

This case describes a 30-yr-old white female who presented with a 2-wk history of pruritic rash with exercise. This rash occurred with each bout of exercise and was accompanied by one episode of light-headedness. A bicycle ergometer exercise challenge resulted in a fine wheal and flare rash of the trunk and upper extremities that was associated with symptomatic hypotension. She was diagnosed with exercise induced anaphylaxis, and initial treatment with hydroxyzine was instituted. Side effects from the drug were poorly tolerated, and she was switched to inhaled cromolyn sodium. She had noted resolution of her symptoms while she took cromolyn as recommended. Two months after her initial presentation, she also began to experience the same rash with hot showers. Exercise induced anaphylaxis is a well-described form of physical allergy that may be underdiagnosed. As the fitness boom continues and clinicians see more exercising patients, it will be important to recognize and understand this condition. It is a true anaphylactic reaction and, as such, certainly has the potential for significant morbidity and mortality.