A masquerade of recurrent anaphylaxis.

Background

We present a case of a 37 year old man with a history of human immunodeficiency virus, latent syphilis, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder. attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, multiple drug intolerance syndrome who presented with concerns of recurrent episodes of rash and respiratory symptoms with questionable "anaphylaxis" episodes without clear etiology or known trigger.

Methods

To evaluate some of the potential causes of recurrent anaphylaxis in our patient. Further evaluation through laboratory analysis and ultimately direct visualization of the patient's vocal cords by laryngoscopy assisted in the final diagnosis.

Results

Inappropriate adduction of the vocal cords was observed during an acute reaction.

Conclusion

The patient's presentation was consistent with inducible laryngeal obstruction and highlights the importance of confirming a suspected diagnosis of anaphylaxis and keeping a broad differential when establishing an etiology.