[Tardive anaphylactic shock caused by intolerance to aspirin]

A case of tardive anaphylactic shock resulting from intolerance of acetyl salicylic acid is presented. The precipitating mechanism of ASA-intolerance is complex and not yet fully elucidated but possibly involves anaphylate toxins activated by mast cells. The symptoms may occur immediately or after a prolonged latent period and are dependent on the dosage. Patients with asthma and chronic urticaria/angiooedema show increased prevalence of ASA-intolerance and these patients should be advised to be careful with ASA/NSAID preparations.