An Unusual Presentation of Allergic Reactions: Kounis Syndrome

Abstract

Kounis syndrome is a rare cause of angina pectoris and acute coronary syndrome associated with acute allergic reactions. We present a case of one middle-aged male with this syndrome presenting with ST elevation on electrocardiogram after amoxicillin intake. It is important that clinicians be aware of the possible link between allergic disorders and acute coronary syndromes. Therefore, an allergic insult should be considered during diagnostic and therapeutic steps in managing acute coronary syndromes in appropriate clinical context. Acute coronary syndromes associated with this syndrome should be managed per relevant guidelines and timely coronary angiography should be performed in majority of cases. (Hong Kong j.emerg.med. 2015;22: 371-375)