The Patent Blue V Paradox: Hidden Offender, Serial Culprit.

Patent Blue V (PBV) is extensively used in sentinel lymph node identification in cancer surgery, potentially leading to an increased incidence of hypersensitivity reactions. A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with suspected PBV hypersensitivity, at our center from 2010 to 2023. Skin prick tests (SPT) were performed on all patients, followed by intradermal tests (IDT) if SPT was negative.

Cold-Induced Urticaria in a Paediatric Patient: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Acquired cold-induced urticaria is a rare form of physical urticaria, especially in children. The variety of clinical presentations and the low estimated prevalence contribute to its underdiagnosis. Given the associated risk of anaphylaxis, it is crucial to alert clinicians to the different forms of presentation, diagnosis, and treatment.

Desensitization in children allergic to drugs: Indications, protocols, and limits.

Any drug can potentially induce a hypersensitivity reaction. If after the allergological work-up the drug hypersensitivity reaction is confirmed, in most cases, the simple avoidance of the culprit drug and a suggestion of an unrelated alternative is enough. However, there are circumstances where the choice to stop the treatment affects the survival, the safety and/or the quality of life of the patient and the global outcome of the disease in question.

Idiopathic mast cell activation syndrome is more often suspected than diagnosed-A prospective real-life study.

Background: Idiopathic mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) is characterized by three diagnostic criteria: (1) episodic mast cell (MC)-driven signs/symptoms of at least two organ systems in the absence of clonal MC expansion and definite triggers, (2) episodic increase in tryptase, and (3) response to MC-targeted treatment. Many patients believe they have MCAS, but how often this is the case remains unknown.

Methods: We prospectively investigated patients with suspected MCAS (n = 100) for the diagnostic criteria including baseline tryptase, KIT D816V mutation, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) over the course of 12 weeks.

Anaphylaxis in children and adolescents: The Portuguese Anaphylaxis Registry.

Background: Anaphylaxis is increasing at pediatric age; however, its characterization is hampered by underdiagnosis and underreporting. The aim of this study was to identify the causes of anaphylaxis in children and adolescents in Portugal, thus contributing to a better knowledge of its etiology, clinical manifestations, and management.

Methods: During a 10-year period, a nationwide notification system for anaphylaxis was implemented, with voluntary reporting by allergists.

The effect of inspiratory muscle training on swimming performance, inspiratory muscle strength, lung function, and perceived breathlessness in elite swimmers: a randomized controlled trial.

Background: According to studies performed on terrestrial sports athletes, inspiratory muscle training (IMT) may improve athletes' performance. However, evidence of its effects in elite swimmers is lacking. Therefore, we aimed to assess the effect of 12-week IMT on swimming performance, inspiratory muscle strength, lung function, and perceived breathlessness in elite swimmers.

How to Treat Patients with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria with Omalizumab: Questions and Answers.

Omalizumab is an effective treatment for patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). In routine clinical practice, physicians often face complex cases of CSU and need to decide whether patients are suitable for omalizumab treatment and how to manage this therapy. Here, we provide evidence and experience-based answers to the most common and important questions on omalizumab treatment of CSU.

Reasons for Declining Venom Immunotherapy.

Introduction: Hymenoptera venom allergy is associated with significant morbidity and deterioration in health-related quality of life, and risk of fatal systemic reactions. Although venom immunotherapy is safe and the only effective treatment in allergic individuals, some patients prefer not to pursue this treatment. Since 2011, when the 50% reimbursement was stopped, patients must fully support the cost of immunotherapy.