Suspicion of exercise-induced anaphylaxis in a twelve-year-old boy

Suspicion of exercise-induced anaphylaxis in a twelve-year-old boy Background: Immunological reactions of cauliflower and related vegetables are only rarely described in literature. Methods: We report the case of a 12-year-old boy who suffered an acute episode consisting of chest tightness with dyspnea, pruritus of the skin and hypotension during sports after eating cauliflower. Because of the severity of the reaction he was treated in the emergency room. Results: Prick-to-Prick test was positive to cauliflower. Specific IgE was positive to cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage and celery. Other nutritive and aeroallergens were negative. By demand of the patient we dispense on a food challenge because of the clear reaction and appropriate allergization. Conclusions: This is the first published case of an anaphylaxis caused by cauliflower found in children. With high probability exercise was an important augmentation factor. A certain differentiation between food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis and anaphylaxis with the augmentation of exercise is not possible.