[Anaphylactic reactions in mediastinal echinococcosis]

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Parasitology
• Medical Science

Background:

• Echinococcosis is a parasitic infection that can cause severe complications.
• Mediastinal echinococcosis presents unique challenges due to its location and inoperability.
• Chemotherapy for echinococcosis can sometimes trigger adverse reactions.

Observation:

• A pediatric patient with inoperable mediastinal echinococcosis developed anaphylactic reactions during mebendazole chemotherapy.
• The patient exhibited IgE-mediated hypersensitivity, confirmed by elevated specific IgE antibodies, histamine release from leukocytes, and passive sensitization tests.

Findings:

• Hyposensitization therapy using echinococcus antigen was administered over a two-year period.
• Following hyposensitization, the patient showed no further anaphylactic symptoms.
• Significant decreases in allergen-specific serum IgE concentrations and basophil sensitivity to echinococcus antigen were observed.

Implications:

• Hyposensitization therapy appears effective in managing anaphylactic reactions in patients with echinococcosis.
• This approach may offer a viable treatment option for patients experiencing hypersensitivity during echinococcosis chemotherapy.
• Further research is warranted to establish clear guidelines for hyposensitization in managing echinococcosis-related allergic complications.