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A rare case of lysozyme-induced anaphylaxis in a child with egg allergy
Charles Elbany1, Delphine de Boissieu1, Chantal Karila1
1Service de Pneumologie et Allergologie Pédiatriques, AP-HP, Hôpital Universitaire Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France.
Abstract:
We report an unusual case of anaphylaxis induced by the lysozyme-containing over-the-counter-drug Lysopaine®, which contains 20 mg lysozyme hydrochloride and 1.5 mg cetylpyridinium chloride, in a 9-year-old child with allergy to hen's egg as well as multiple IgE-mediated food allergies. The involvement of lysozyme was confirmed by positive skin prick tests for Lysopaine® and the presence of specific IgE against lysozyme. Our case highlights the importance of properly educating allergic patients to recognize allergens, even minor ones. Despite the presence of lysozyme in various food and drug products, it is not necessarily perceived as an allergenic protein by patients with egg allergy, and the labeling may be misleading, thereby exposing patients to potentially severe reactions.
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