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Basophil Activation Test for Investigation of IgE-Mediated Mechanisms in Drug Hypersensitivity
Published on: September 16, 2011
Corticosteroid-dependent idiopathic anaphylaxis: a report of five cases
C A Wiggins1, M S Dykewicz, R Patterson
1Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, Ill.
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|September 1, 1989
Summary
Idiopathic anaphylaxis (IA) is a serious condition. Some patients with IA require a specific threshold dose of prednisone to prevent recurrent episodes, a state termed corticosteroid-dependent IA.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Allergy and Immunology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Idiopathic anaphylaxis (IA) is a recognized, life-threatening condition.
- Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are known to manage anaphylaxis episodes.
- The long-term management and specific treatment thresholds for IA remain under investigation.
Observation:
- Five patients with IA experienced recurrent episodes when prednisone dosage was reduced below a specific threshold (15-65 mg every other day).
- These episodes occurred consistently upon tapering prednisone, indicating a dependency.
- Patients required maintenance prednisone therapy to remain symptom-free.
Findings:
- A threshold dose of prednisone is identified in a subset of IA patients.
- This threshold is crucial for preventing recurrent anaphylactic events.
- The findings support the efficacy of corticosteroids in managing chronic IA.
Implications:
- The concept of 'corticosteroid-dependent IA' is proposed for chronic cases requiring maintenance therapy.
- Identifying this threshold may personalize treatment strategies for IA.
- Further research into the mechanisms and long-term management of corticosteroid-dependent IA is warranted.
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