Food-dependent, exercise-induced anaphylaxis (FDEIA) is a rare condition that is a challenge to diagnose. One theory is that exercise increases absorption of the triggering allergen from the gastrointestinal tract.
Clinical features:
(1) The patient experiences allergic reactions following exercise that may range from urticaria to anaphylaxis with shock.
(2) The episodes of anaphylaxis occur only after eating certain foods.
(3) Ingestion of aspirin may enhance the allergic reaction. It may be a required factor for some patients.
(4) A challenge test may be the only way to make the diagnosis with certainty, but this can be hazardous to the patient. Often avoiding future situations is sufficient.
Wheat is the most commonly implicated food (wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis, or WDEIA).
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
