• Description: an IgE-independent reaction that is clinically indistinguishable from type I hypersensitivity reaction
  • Etiology
    • Radiocontrast media
    • Narcotics
    • Vancomycin, NSAIDs
      • Red man syndrome (Vancomycin flushing reaction)L59269.jpg
  • Pathophysiology
    • Substances cause direct (or complement-mediated in case of anaphylactoid reaction) mast cell activation and subsequent release of histamine not mediated by immunoglobulin.
    • In contrast to true anaphylactic reactions, no sensitization to allergens is required (i.e., first contact can already lead to anaphylactic shock)
  • Clinical features: urticaria, pruritus, edema, hypotension, or even symptoms of anaphylactic shock