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- Fig Tree-Induced Phytophotodermatitis: A Case Report on the Perils of a HobbyPublication . Pinto, Ana Raquel; Machado Cunha, Inês; Rebelo Gomes, EvaPhytophotodermatitis, a condition that results from sequential skin exposure to phototoxic chemicals contained within plants, followed by exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation, has been described with several plants and plant-based foods, namely members of the Moraceaefamily, which include Ficus carica L. This tree's branches, leaves, and fruit skin exude a milky sap or latex containing proteolytic enzymes and furocoumarins known to be photoirritants, easily absorbed upon skin contact. Oxygen-dependent and independent toxic reactions subsequent to sun exposure promote cell membrane damage and oedema, consequently leading to cell death. The diagnosis is confirmed with a detailed anamnesis, and photopatch testing is often useful to rule out a differential diagnosis. It is typically a self-limited condition, with few cases requiring treatment with topical or systemic corticosteroids. We report on a 55-year-old male patient who, following picking figs and pruning a fig tree while exposed to sunlight, developed erythematous and pruritic maculopapular lesions that progressed to blisters with residual hyperpigmentation. The diagnosis was further corroborated through photopatch testing, and the patient was recommended to avoid this recreational activity without symptoms' relapse. This case highlights the importance of considering phytophotodermatitis as a differential diagnosis when evaluating cases of dermatitis on exposed body surfaces and the importance of an exhaustive anamnesis. Identification of specific plant triggers and the performance of photopatch tests are essential to help confirm the diagnosis and guide avoidance recommendations
- Anaphylaxis in pediatric age: An overviewPublication . Marques, Maria Luís; Gouveia, Joana; Machado Cunha, Inês; Rebelo Gomes, EvaAnaphylaxis is defined as an acute severe, life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction. The condition’s real prevalence and incidence are difficult to estimate, but seem to be increasing, particularly in children. Anaphylaxis clinical presentation varies according to age and other individual factors. Although consensual clinical criteria exist, including in pediatric age, diagnosis can be challenging. Food allergy is the most common anaphylaxis cause in children, particularly in preschool age. Drug-induced reactions and hymenoptera venom sting are other major triggers, which importance increases after adolescence. Management involves diagnosis, appropriate identification of possible triggers, acute phase treatment, and long-term planning. Prompt referral to a Pediatric Allergy specialist is recommended, as complete allergy workup is usually required to implement future preventive measures. In this review, the authors discuss particular aspects regarding anaphylaxis in pediatric age to provide information that can help improve disease management.
- Chronic spontaneous urticaria in pediatric agePublication . Machado Cunha, Inês; Rebelo Gomes, EvaIntroduction: Chronic spontaneous urticaria is characterized by emergence of pruritic maculopapular cutaneous lesions recurring for more than six weeks, without known triggering factor. Association with autoimmunity is sometimes present, with urticaria preceding the onset of autoimmune disease. Clinical case: A five-year-old female with a personal history of allergic asthma and family history of thyroid disease was referred to the Immunoallergology consultation for cutaneous complaints compatible with urticaria with more than three years of evolution. Inducible urticaria forms were excluded. Analytical study revealed positive antinuclear antibodies with a 1/320 titer and positive basophil activation test after stimulation with autologous serum. Control of cutaneous manifestations was achieved with full dose antihistaminic H1. Conclusion: Chronic spontaneous urticaria associated with autoimmunity is rare in children. Clinical follow-up should be maintained to evaluate disease control and enable early recognition of other autoimmunity manifestations.