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Okuda R, Utsumi S, Tanaka H, Takama T, Kakihana Y. Type III Kounis Syndrome Caused by Iodine Contrast Media After Improvement of Allergic Symptoms. Cureus 2024; 16:e55514. [PMID: 38449915 PMCID: PMC10915903 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.55514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Kounis syndrome is an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) caused by an allergic reaction that almost always occurs immediately and simultaneously with allergic symptoms. We present a case of Kounis syndrome type III that developed after complete resolution of contrast-induced anaphylaxis in a 60-year-old man with a coronary stent placed in the proximal left anterior descending (LAD) artery branch for ischemic heart disease. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed anaphylactic shock. Symptoms quickly improved with intramuscular adrenaline injection; however, chest pain appeared after approximately 30 min. ECG revealed ST-wave elevation in the precordial leads. Coronary angiography revealed acute stent thrombosis with total occlusion of the proximal LAD, and percutaneous coronary angioplasty was performed. We diagnosed Kounis syndrome based on the allergic symptoms and ACS. Because some cases of Kounis syndrome develop after anaphylactic symptoms have resolved, it is advisable to follow-up patients with allergic symptoms and pay attention to chest symptoms and ECG changes, especially when they have a history of noted or treated coronary artery disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuichiro Okuda
- Emergency and Critical Care Center, Kagoshima City Hospital, Kagoshima, JPN
- Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, JPN
| | - Shu Utsumi
- Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, JPN
| | - Hideki Tanaka
- Cardiology, National Hospital Organization Kagoshima Medical Center, Kagoshima, JPN
| | - Tatsuo Takama
- Emergency and Critical Care Center, Kagoshima City Hospital, Kagoshima, JPN
- Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, JPN
| | - Yasuyuki Kakihana
- Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, JPN
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Youcefi HE, Abu Saadeh A, Karaca G, Kimiaei A, Safaei S, Kaya A. Exploring Variations in Etiology and Clinical Presentations of Kounis Syndrome Across Pediatric and Adult Populations: A Comprehensive Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e56249. [PMID: 38623099 PMCID: PMC11016985 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Kounis syndrome (KS), recognized as a rare yet significant form of acute coronary syndrome precipitated by allergy-mediated mechanisms, poses diagnostic challenges due to its varied clinical presentations and under-recognition. Despite its relevance across diverse populations, comprehensive insights into age-specific characteristics and management remain limited. The analysis of 420 studies yielded a total of 466 case reports of Kounis syndrome, categorized into pediatric (n = 31) and adult (n = 435) populations. After rigorous screening, 330 adult and 20 pediatric case reports were included for further analysis. Triggering factors were identified, with drugs (other) being the most prevalent in both groups. The breakdown of triggering factors, such as drugs (antibiotics), bee/wasp stings, and contrast media, was elucidated. Variations in presenting symptoms, diagnostic investigations, and treatment modalities between pediatric and adult populations were observed. Notably, all pediatric cases were diagnosed with subtype I Kounis syndrome and demonstrated favorable outcomes without any reported fatalities, whereas adult cases exhibited a broader range of Kounis subtypes. Mortality was recorded solely in adult case reports, with no fatalities reported among pediatric cases. These findings underscore the importance of understanding the nuances in the clinical presentation and management of Kounis syndrome across different age groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ali Kimiaei
- Cardiology, Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul, TUR
| | | | - Adnan Kaya
- Cardiology, Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul, TUR
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Sagalov A, Eggert A, Rimawi A, Hegde S. A Rare Presentation of Kounis Syndrome Induced by an Echocardiography Contrast. CJC Open 2023; 5:757-759. [PMID: 37876888 PMCID: PMC10591133 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjco.2023.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Sagalov
- Department of Internal Medicine, SIU (Southern Illinois University) School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Ashley Eggert
- Department of Internal Medicine, SIU (Southern Illinois University) School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Ahmad Rimawi
- Department of Internal Medicine, SIU (Southern Illinois University) School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Shruti Hegde
- Division of Cardiology, SIU (Southern Illinois University) School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
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Podder I, Dhabal A, Sen I. Ibuprofen-induced Kounis syndrome type 1-A rare case from India. Int J Dermatol 2023; 62:e161-e163. [PMID: 35781805 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.16349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Podder
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine and Sagore Dutta Hospital, Kolkata, India
| | - Arunima Dhabal
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine and Sagore Dutta Hospital, Kolkata, India
| | - Indranil Sen
- Department of Cardiology, Apollo Multispeciality Hospital, Kolkata, India
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Gogos C, Stamos K, Tsanaxidis N, Styliadis I, Koniari I, Kouni SN, de Gregorio C, Kounis NG. Blood Transfusion Components Inducing Severe Allergic Reactions: The First Case of Kounis Syndrome Induced by Platelet Transfusion. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020220. [PMID: 36851100 PMCID: PMC9965342 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Kounis syndrome is a multisystem and multidisciplinary disease affecting the circulatory system that can be manifested as spasm and thrombosis. It can occur as allergic, hypersensitivity, anaphylactic, or anaphylactoid reactions associated with the release of inflammatory mediators from mast cells and from other interrelated and interacting inflammatory cells, including macrophages and lymphocytes. A platelet subset with high- and low-affinity IgE surface receptors is also involved in this process. Whereas the heart, and particularly the coronary arteries, constitute the primary targets of inflammatory mediators, the mesenteric, cerebral, and peripheral arteries are also vulnerable. Kounis syndrome is caused by a variety of factors, including drugs, foods, environmental exposure, clinical conditions, stent implantation, and vaccines. We report a unique case of a 60-year-old male with a past medical history of allergy to human albumin, alcoholic cirrhosis, and esophageal varices, who was admitted due to multiple episodes of hematemesis. Due to low hemoglobin levels, he was transfused with 3 units of red blood cells and fresh frozen plasma without any adverse reactions. On the third day of hospitalization, severe thrombocytopenia was observed and transfusion of platelets was initiated. Immediately following platelet infusion, the patient developed chest discomfort, skin signs of severe allergic reaction, and hemodynamic instability. The electrocardiogram revealed ST segment elevation in the inferior leads. Given the strong suspicion of Kounis syndrome/allergic coronary spasm, the patient was treated with anti-allergic treatment only, without any anti-platelet therapy. The clinical status of the patient gradually improved and the electrocardiographic changes reverted to normal. Based on these findings, Kounis hypersensitivity-associated acute coronary syndrome, specifically, type I Kounis syndrome, was diagnosed. Although platelet transfusion can be a life-saving therapy, each blood transfusion carries a substantial risk of adverse reactions. The aims of this report are to expand the existing knowledge of patient responses to blood transfusion and provide information on the incidence of various severe transfusion reactions to all blood components and especially to platelets. To the best of our knowledge, Kounis syndrome induced by platelet transfusionhas never been previously reported. Hypersensitivity to platelet external membrane glycoproteins in an atopic patient seems to be the possible etiology. Despite that Kounis syndrome remains an under-diagnosed clinical entity in everyday practice, it should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute coronary syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos Gogos
- Department of Cardiology, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Nea Efkarpia, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Stamos
- Department of Cardiology, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Nea Efkarpia, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Tsanaxidis
- Department of Cardiology, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Nea Efkarpia, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis Styliadis
- Department of Cardiology, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Nea Efkarpia, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioanna Koniari
- Department of Cardiology, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Liverpool L14 3PE, UK
| | | | - Cesare de Gregorio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina Medical School, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Nicholas G. Kounis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Patras Medical School, 26221 Patras, Greece
- Correspondence:
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Dai B, Cavaye J, Judd M, Beuth J, Iswariah H, Gurunathan U. Perioperative presentations of Kounis syndrome: a systematic literature review. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2022; 36:2070-2076. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2022.01.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Wang C, Deng Z, Song L, Sun W, Fang W, Li Z. Analysis of clinical characteristics of Kounis syndrome induced by contrast media. Am J Emerg Med 2021; 52:203-207. [PMID: 34959022 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2021.12.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the relationship between contrast agents and Kounis syndrome (KS) is mainly based on case reports. The purpose of this research is to explore the clinical characteristics of contrast media induced KS. METHODS We searched for contrast-induced KS case reports through Chinese and English databases from 1991 to October 31, 2021. RESULTS A total of 26 patients (19 men and 7 women,) were included, with a median age of 60 years (range 30-83). The contrast agents that cause KS mainly included gadolinium-based contrast agent (7 cases), iodine-containing contrast media (12 cases). KS mainly occurred within 30 min after administration and mainly manifests as chest pain and allergic reactions. Electrocardiogram (ECG) mainly showed ST elevation. Echocardiography mainly revealed normal. Coronary angiography showed normal, coronary vasospasm, stent thrombosis, occlusion and stenosis. After treatment with steroids, antihistamines and anti-ischemic therapy, 24 patients recovered completely and 2 patients died. CONCLUSIONS KS is a rare adverse reaction of contrast media. Radiologists should recognize this rare but serious disease to ensure rapid diagnosis and proper management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunjiang Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhenzhen Deng
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Liying Song
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Weijin Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zuojun Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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Brockow K. Diagnosing and Managing Patients with Reactions to Radiocontrast Media. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN ALLERGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40521-021-00287-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of the review
Iodinated radio contrast media (RCM) belong to the most common elicitors of drug hypersensitivity reactions (HR). Urticaria or anaphylaxis may occur ≤ 1(−6) hour(s) (immediate HR) and exanthems (non-immediate HR) develop > 6 h after application of RCM. Evidence for an immunologic mechanism of RCM HR against the different RCM benzene ring molecules and the benefit of allergological testing in patients with previous hypersensitivity reactions is progressively increasing.
Recent findings
Positive skin tests can confirm allergy in patients with previous reactions to RCM and help to select alternative better tolerated RCMs. Severe hypersensitivity reactions are mainly caused by an allergic mechanism, whereas the majority of non-severe reactions appear to be non-allergic. Skin testing is highly recommended to help identify allergic hypersensitivity reactions and to select alternatives. Using structurally different RCM is more effective than premedication for the prevention of future reactions. Drug provocation tests to RCM have been increasingly used, but are not yet standardized among different centers.
Summary
In patients with previous severe hypersensitivity reactions to RCM, skin testing is recommended. For future RCM-enhanced examinations in patients with previous reactions, structurally different, skin test-negative preparations should be applied. Drug provocation tests do confirm or exclude RCM hypersensitivity or may demonstrate tolerability of alternative RCMs.
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Elzeneini M, Aalaei-Andabili SH, Keeley EC. Recurrent Lethal Allergic Coronary Vasospasm. Am J Med 2020; 133:e731-e732. [PMID: 32497541 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2020.04.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ellen C Keeley
- Department of Medicine; Division of Cardiology, University of Florida, Gainesville.
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Maadarani O, Bitar Z, Shoeb S, Alsaddah J. From Wellens To Kounis Syndrome: An Unlucky Patient. Eur J Case Rep Intern Med 2020; 7:001689. [PMID: 32908826 DOI: 10.12890/2020_001689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Wellens syndrome (WS) is identified by ECG changes in the precordial leads after resolution of angina chest pain. WS indicates critical stenosis of the proximal left anterior descending (LAD) artery. On the other hand, Kounis syndrome (KS) is an allergic reaction to various substances resulting in acute coronary syndrome. Contrast media can trigger the allergic reaction associated with KS. We describe a patient with WS who developed an allergic reaction to contrast media after percutaneous coronary intervention and experienced recurrent myocardial infarction on re-exposure. LEARNING POINTS Despite its rarity, physicians and radiologists should be aware of Kounis syndrome triggered by contrast media so it can be rapidly diagnosed and treated.The initial target of the prevention and treatment of KS is avoidance of the precipitating stimulus or allergen.There are three KS variants: angina due to allergic coronary spasm, allergic myocardial infarction and allergy-induced stent thrombosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ossama Maadarani
- Internal Medicine Department, Ahmadi Hospital - Kuwait Oil Company, Al Ahmadi, Kuwait
| | - Zouheir Bitar
- Internal Medicine Department, Ahmadi Hospital - Kuwait Oil Company, Al Ahmadi, Kuwait
| | - Sania Shoeb
- Internal Medicine Department, Al Salam Hospital, Kuwait
| | - Jadan Alsaddah
- Department of Cardiology, Chest Diseases Hospital, Kuwait
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Ghilencea L, Popescu MR, Ghiordanescu IM, Conea C, Melnic M, Popescu AC. Type I Kounis Syndrome after Protracted Anaphylaxis and Myocardial Bridge-Brief Literature Review and Case Report. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10020059. [PMID: 31973213 PMCID: PMC7168894 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10020059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The term allergic angina, introduced for the first time by Nicholas Kounis in 1991, initially referred to the coexistence of acute coronary syndromes with allergy or hypersensitivity. At present, it is believed that Kounis syndrome is a particular case of systemic disease, with multiorgan arterial involvement generated during immediate hypersensitivity reactions. Myocardial bridging (MB), a condition that can induce coronary artery spasm, has long been regarded as a benign condition. Since both pathologies are associated with arterial spasm, Kounis syndrome and MB are considered to be confounding pathologies for acute coronary syndromes, and their association is quite a rare finding. To date, there are no precise data on the epidemiology, and the population affected by Kounis syndrome seems to be highly heterogeneous. Since this is a rare disease, even less is known about possible different phenotypes, including MB overlap. We report a case of type I variant Kounis syndrome associated with MB with no evidence of coronary artery disease, occurring as late presentation, following a severe systemic reaction (anaphylaxis) induced by a Hymenoptera sting. At present, only two other cases of type I and one case of type II Kounis syndrome occurring in patients with myocardial bridging have been described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liviu Ghilencea
- Cardiology Division, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011416 Bucharest, Romania
- Cardiothoracic Pathology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Roxana Popescu
- Cardiology Division, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011416 Bucharest, Romania
- Cardiothoracic Pathology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-723583365
| | | | - Cristina Conea
- Cardiology Division, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011416 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Melnic
- Cardiology Division, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011416 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Catarina Popescu
- Cardiology Division, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011416 Bucharest, Romania
- Cardiothoracic Pathology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
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Kounis NG, Koniari I, Velissaris D, Tzanis G, Hahalis G. Kounis Syndrome—not a Single-organ Arterial Disorder but a Multisystem and Multidisciplinary Disease. Balkan Med J 2019; 36:212-221. [PMID: 31198019 PMCID: PMC6636655 DOI: 10.4274/balkanmedj.galenos.2019.2019.5.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronary symptoms associated with conditions related to mast cell activation and inflammatory cell interactions, such as those involving T-lymphocytes and macrophages, further inducing allergic, hypersensitivity, anaphylactic, or anaphylactic insults, are currently referred to as the Kounis syndrome. Kounis syndrome is caused by inflammatory mediators released during allergic insults, post-inflammatory cell activation, and interactions via multidirectional stimuli. A platelet subset of 20% with high- and low-affinity IgE surface receptors is also involved in this process. Kounis syndrome is not just a single-organ but also a complex multisystem and multi-organ arterial clinical condition; it affects the coronary, mesenteric, and cerebral arteries and is accompanied by allergy–hypersensitivity–anaphylaxis involving the skin, respiratory, and vascular systems in the context of anesthesia, surgery, radiology, oncology, or even dental and psychiatric medicine; further, it has significantly influences both morbidity and mortality. Kounis syndrome might be caused by numerous and continuously increasing causes, with broad clinical symptoms and signs, via multi-organ arterial system involvement, in patients of any age, thereby demonstrating predominant anaphylactic features in terms of a wide spectrum of mast cell-association disorders. Cardiac symptoms, such as chest pain, coronary vasospasm, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, acute cardiac failure, and sudden cardiac death associated with subclinical, clinical, acute, or chronic allergic reactions, constitute the clinical manifestations of this syndrome. Since its first description, a common pathway between allergic and non-allergic coronary events has been demonstrated. The hypothesis is based on the existence of a much higher degree of mast cell degranulation at plaque erosion or rupture sites compared with at the adjacent areas or even more distant segments in post-acute myocardial infarction of non-allergic etiology. Although mast cell activation, differentiation, and mediator release takes days or weeks, the mast cell degranulation may occur just before any acute coronary event, further resulting in coronary artery vasoconstriction and atheromatous plaque rupture. It seems that medications and natural molecules stabilizing the mast cell membrane as well as monoclonal antibodies protecting the mast cell surface can emerge as novel therapeutic modalities for acute coronary and cerebrovascular event prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas G. Kounis
- Department of Cardiology, Patras University School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
| | - Ioanna Koniari
- Electrophysiology and Device Department University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Dimitrios Velissaris
- Department of Internal Medicine, Patras University School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
| | - George Tzanis
- Interventional Cardiology Unit, GVM Care & Research Maria Cecilia Hospital, Via Madonna di Genova, Cotignola RA, Italy
| | - George Hahalis
- Department of Cardiology, Patras University School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
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