Recurrent Lactation Anaphylaxis

Abstract

Lactation anaphylaxis is a rare condition that occurs during the postpartum period and is characterised by respiratory, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular symptoms. This is a case report of a 31-year-old para 3 woman who presented at the Adult Emergency Department with lactation anaphylaxis, a rare condition with only 10 cases reported at the time of writing our case. She presented with difficulties in breathing, pruritus, urticaria, and angioedema. Her symptoms were severe during periods of exclusive breastfeeding. She was treated with a corticosteroid and antihistamine which worked to good effect. The symptoms completely stopped after cessation of breastfeeding. She had similar symptoms with her second child but none with her first child. This case shows that lactation anaphylaxis can be recurrent and responds well to standard treatment for anaphylactic reactions.