Anaphylaxis associated with relative bradycardia.
A 31-year-old man with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and asthma experienced an episode of anaphylaxis following an injection of allergens during hyposensitization. His anaphylactic episode was remarkable because of a relative sinus bradycardia at the beginning of his reaction. This case is reported to highlight the importance of not confusing the anaphylactic syndrome with vasovagal syncope even when a tachycardia is initially absent. The possible pathophysiologic role of right coronary vasospasm resulting in the Bezold-Jarish reflex or sinoatrial node ischemia is discussed.
Simon
M R
MR
Medical Service, Veterans Administration Medical Center, Allen Park, MI.
D000328:Adult; D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000150:complications* / Q000209:etiology; D001919:Bradycardia / Q000150:complications*; D003231:Conjunctivitis / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000503:physiopathology; D008297:Male; D012220:Rhinitis / Q000276:immunology