Kounis syndrome or just coincidence

    Authors

    Keywords

    Kounis syndrome, acute myocardial infarction, acute cardiac care

    DOI

    https://doi.org/10.15836/ccar2022.348

    Full Text

    Introduction : Kounis syndrome is described as an acute coronary syndrome related to allergic reaction ( 1 , 2 ). The syndrome is caused by inflammatory mediators released in the event of hypersensitivity and allergic reaction to food, drugs, or insect sting. The syndrome is poorly described and often underdiagnosed, while its etiology is hard to determine due to numerous possible causes. Case report : We describe 51-year-old male patient with arterial hypertension and diabetes, who reported flushing, malaise, and lightheadedness immediately after hornet sting. Upon Emergency Ambulance arrival, the patient was pale, diaphoretic, and hypotensive. Treatment for severe anaphylactic reaction was initiated. However, during the Emergency Department workup, patients reported anginal chest pain and sinus tachycardia was recorded. A 12-lead electrocardiogram showed ST segment elevation. The diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome was established and admission to the Cardiac Intensive Care unit was arranged. Urgent coronary angiography and successful percutaneous coronary intervention LAD using right trans radial approach was performed with one stent implantation in the responsible thrombotic occlusion of the proximal segment. After 6 days the patient was discharged. Moderate physical activity and a 12-month course of dual antiplatelet therapy were recommended. Conclusion : Beside the case report, we here emphasize the importance of nurse practitioner care, as well as the importance of early recognition of acute coronary syndrome. One of the most important tasks of a nurse is observing the general condition of the patient and identifying pathological changes. Providing a high level of health care requires continuous education on new knowledge and skills.

    Cardiologia Croatica
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    Kounis syndrome or just coincidence

    Extended Abstract
    Issue9-10
    Published
    Pages348
    PDF via DOIhttps://doi.org/10.15836/ccar2022.348
    Kounis syndrome
    acute myocardial infarction
    acute cardiac care

    Authors

    Nikolina Slamek*ORCIDDubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia
    Biljana HržićORCIDDubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia
    Dijana TutićORCIDDubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia
    Katarina GrandavecORCIDDubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia

    Full Text

    Introduction : Kounis syndrome is described as an acute coronary syndrome related to allergic reaction ( 1 , 2 ). The syndrome is caused by inflammatory mediators released in the event of hypersensitivity and allergic reaction to food, drugs, or insect sting. The syndrome is poorly described and often underdiagnosed, while its etiology is hard to determine due to numerous possible causes. Case report : We describe 51-year-old male patient with arterial hypertension and diabetes, who reported flushing, malaise, and lightheadedness immediately after hornet sting. Upon Emergency Ambulance arrival, the patient was pale, diaphoretic, and hypotensive. Treatment for severe anaphylactic reaction was initiated. However, during the Emergency Department workup, patients reported anginal chest pain and sinus tachycardia was recorded. A 12-lead electrocardiogram showed ST segment elevation. The diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome was established and admission to the Cardiac Intensive Care unit was arranged. Urgent coronary angiography and successful percutaneous coronary intervention LAD using right trans radial approach was performed with one stent implantation in the responsible thrombotic occlusion of the proximal segment. After 6 days the patient was discharged. Moderate physical activity and a 12-month course of dual antiplatelet therapy were recommended. Conclusion : Beside the case report, we here emphasize the importance of nurse practitioner care, as well as the importance of early recognition of acute coronary syndrome. One of the most important tasks of a nurse is observing the general condition of the patient and identifying pathological changes. Providing a high level of health care requires continuous education on new knowledge and skills.