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Case Report: Kounis syndrome due to cryptopteran bite.
Rui Liao1, Shengjie Cheng1, Nan Xu1
1Department of Cardiology, The First People's Hospital of Neijiang, Neijiang, China.
Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine
|February 21, 2024
Summary
Kounis syndrome, an allergic reaction causing acute coronary syndrome, can manifest as coronary artery spasm. This case highlights Kounis syndrome type I triggered by a Cryptopteran insect bite, emphasizing prompt anti-allergic treatment for good outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Allergy and Immunology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Kounis syndrome is an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) resulting from allergic reactions.
- It encompasses coronary artery spasm (Type I), myocardial infarction (Type II), and stent thrombosis (Type III).
- This condition can occur in individuals with or without pre-existing coronary artery disease.
Observation:
- A 47-year-old female presented with chest distress following a Cryptopteran insect bite.
- Initial ECG revealed ST-segment elevation and elevated troponin levels.
- Coronary angiography demonstrated coronary spasm in the left anterior descending artery.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms resolved with treatment, and ECG abnormalities normalized.
- This case illustrates Kounis syndrome Type I induced by an insect bite.
- Kounis syndrome can precipitate myocardial ischemic injury.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and prompt anti-allergic treatment are crucial for managing Kounis syndrome.
- Insect bites can be a trigger for potentially life-threatening allergic cardiovascular events.
- Awareness of Kounis syndrome is vital for clinicians managing patients with acute coronary syndromes and allergic reactions.

