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Penicillin Allergy

Penicillin allergy is reported in roughly 7-10% of the general population and in up to 20% of hospitalized patients. Even though the reported numbers are fairly high, approximately 90% of these reported cases do not actually have a penicillin allergy. Individuals think they are allergic, but in most cases, the symptoms that they experience are either a non-allergic side effect or completely unrelated to penicillin. An allergy to penicillin, however, appears to be the most common medication allergy, along with other antibiotics.

Penicillin is comparatively inexpensive while being very efficacious. This make it both a common as well as a good choice for clinicians to use when an antibiotic is necessary. For those who have a true allergy to penicillin, the penicillin is seen as a foreign “invader” and one’s immune system mounts a defensive response in order to try to subdue the “invader.” When the immune system mounts a response, chemical mediators are released into the bloodstream in order to attack the intruder. As a result of these chemical mediators (e.g., histamine, leukotrienes), the individual may experience itching, hives, and/or swelling. In severe cases, an anaphylactic reaction may occur where individuals may develop wheezing, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and/or drop in blood pressure.

Most people with a probable history of penicillin allergy are given alternative antibiotics in order to treat infections.  In most cases, the replacement antibiotic will be more expensive than penicillin. It also may not be as effective as penicillin. In addition, the use of a replacement antibiotic can result in bacteria developing resistance to these alternative antibiotics, which will be a detriment to the community as a whole.  In the field of allergy and immunology, is important to distinguish between a “false” allergy and a “true” allergy to penicillin and related antibiotics, so that the correct and appropriate antibiotic can be utilized. The evaluation of penicillin allergy requires the use of a standardized penicillin testing protocol. At Black & Kletz Allergy, our board certified allergists routinely perform this procedure in our office. Skin testing has been used for the diagnosis and management of penicillin allergy since the 1960’s.  The procedure is commonly performed with minimal risk.  Penicillin skin testing can be done safely in properly selected patients with suspected penicillin allergy.

The procedure for penicillin skin testing involves 3 steps:

  • Skin prick testing with a small amount of diluted penicillin allergens, negative control solution, and positive control solution.
  • If the prick tests are negative after 20 minutes, intradermal skin testing is performed where a very small quantity of the allergen, negative control solution, and positive control solution is injected into the superficial layers of the skin.
  • If the intradermal skin test in in this second stage is also negative after 20 minutes, the patient will be given 250 mg. of amoxicillin by mouth (i.e., oral challenge) and will be closely monitored for 90 minutes.

If the patient tolerates all 3 stages without any untoward effects, the patient may receive penicillin if needed without an increased risk of an immediate allergic reaction than that of the general population. Penicillin testing should only be performed in a healthcare setting only by an allergist with the knowledge, training, and experience to select appropriate patients for this procedure, interpret the test results, and manage a systemic allergic reaction if it were to occur. This procedure can accurately identify the roughly 9 of 10 patients, who despite reporting a history of penicillin allergy, can receive penicillin safely. It should be noted that most individuals who say that they are allergic to penicillin because “they were told they had a reaction as a young child” turn out not to have a penicillin allergy when tested by a board certified allergist. It is however important to be tested and to not just assume you will be negative. All presumed “penicillin-allergic” individuals should continue to avoid penicillin until they are tested by an allergist.

The board certified allergists at Black & Kletz Allergy have been diagnosing and managing penicillin allergy, as well as other medication allergies for more than 50 years. We treat both pediatric and adult patients. Black & Kletz Allergy has offices in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA. All 3 of our offices have on-site parking. For further convenience, our Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are Metro accessible. Our McLean office location offers a complementary shuttle that runs between our office and the Spring Hill metro station on the silver line. For an appointment, please call our office or alternatively, you can click Request an Appointment and we will respond within 24 hours by the next business day. If you have a penicillin allergy or think you have a penicillin allergy, we are here to help you by testing you to see if you are allergic to penicillin. Black & Kletz Allergy is dedicated to providing the highest quality allergy care in a relaxed, caring, and professional environment.

Cold Allergies

As we enter into the Winter months, a sensitivity to cold temperatures may trigger some allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Below are some conditions where exposure to cold can cause clinical disease.

Cold-Induced Urticaria:

Exposure of the skin to cold temperatures can be a trigger for breaking out in hives. Cold-induced hives (i.e., urticaria) typically manifest themselves as intensely itchy, red raised blotches (i.e., welts) of various shapes and sizes over the exposed skin. The hives usually begin to develop within 5 to 10 minutes after the exposure to cold, usually when the skin is rewarming. This condition (i.e., cold-induced urticaria) is usually noticed after returning indoors from cold temperatures outdoors or after swimming and coming out of a cold water pool. The hives generally last for about 1 to 2 hours.

More severe cases of cold sensitivity may also result in anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition in which in addition to hives one may also experience systemic symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, difficulty in breathing, and/or fainting. This condition is referred to as cold-induced anaphylaxis. Certain viral infections are thought to play a role in the etiology of this disorder.

The diagnosis of cold-induced urticaria or cold-induced anaphylaxis entails comprehensive history taking, a physical examination, and an “ice cube test.” This involves placing an ice cube in a plastic bag over the skin and keeping it in place for approximately 10 minutes before removing it. As the skin rewarms, an itchy, red, welt appears on the skin in the shape of the ice cube with slightly raised edges. A positive ice cube test confirms the diagnosis of cold-induced urticaria.

Treatment of this condition involves avoidance of the exposure to cold temperatures at all times. Bundling up before venturing out into cold weather and checking the temperature of water before swimming are helpful in preventing acute episodes. Avoidance of drinking cold beverages may also be helpful in certain patients.

When avoidance to the exposure of cold is not possible or practical, taking antihistamines can minimize the severity of symptoms. Periactin (i.e., cyproheptadine) is a first generation antihistamine that has been proven to be beneficial in this condition.

A recent study in 2019 found that a “biologic” medication named Xolair (i.e., omalizumab) was also effective in preventing cold-induced hives when taken as a subcutaneous injection every 4 weeks.

Individuals with a history of cold-induced anaphylaxis should be trained in the proper technique of using an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q, Adrenaclick) and carry it at all times. It is available at most pharmacies in various brand names and requires a prescription from a physician. It should be noted that an individual should go to the nearest emergency room immediately if the self-injectable epinephrine device was used.

Many patients with cold-induced urticaria notice that their symptoms usually become less frequent and less severe after 5 to 10 years.

Familial Cold Autoinflammatory Syndrome:

Familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome (FCAS), also known as familial cold urticaria, is a rare, inherited inflammatory disorder characterized by occasional episodes of rash, fever, joint pain, and/or other signs or symptoms of systemic inflammation triggered by the exposure to cold. The onset of FCAS occurs during infancy and early childhood and persists throughout the patient’s life.

Other symptoms may include profuse sweating, drowsiness, headache, extreme thirst, red eyes, blurred vision, eye pain, watering eyes, nausea and/or vomiting.

Symptoms typically occur within hours after exposure to cold. In most cases, a rash will occur within the first 1-2 hours, followed by a fever and joint pain. Episodes usually last for less than 24 hours.

The treatment of familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) which are often used to alleviate joint pain. High doses of corticosteroids have shown to be somewhat effective, but may cause short and long-term side effects.

Chilblains:

Chilblains is a vascular condition in which the very small blood vessels become inflamed when exposed to cold air. Symptoms may include red skin, itching, pain, blistering, and/or swelling. These symptoms usually resolve within a few weeks, especially if the weather gets warmer.

Raynaud’s Disease/Phenomenon:

Raynaud’s disease primarily affects the fingers and toes. It usually occurs when an individual is exposed to the cold. Individuals with this condition have blood vessel constriction that causes an interruption in the flow of blood to their extremities.

Symptoms may include pain and paleness or blueness of the skin in the affected areas following exposure to cold temperatures. Symptoms may last minutes or hours. This disorder may be associated with other underlying conditions such as connective tissue disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus), smoking, certain medications (e.g., high blood pressure medications, ADHD medications, hormones), certain foods (e.g., caffeine), and carpal tunnel syndrome. If no associated underlying condition is found, it is referred to as Raynaud’s phenomenon.

Cold Agglutinin Disease:

In individuals with cold agglutinin disease, the body attacks its red blood cells in response to their blood temperature falling to a lower temperature than their regular body temperature.

This condition can result in hemolytic anemia (i.e., a disorder where one’s red blood cells are destroyed faster than they are made). It’s often associated with mycoplasma pneumonia infection, scarlet fever, staphylococcal infections, and rheumatological conditions.

Paroxysmal Cold Hemoglobinuria:

Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria is a rare autoimmune disorder usually seen in children in response to cold exposure after an infection. It mainly affects the hands and feet. The symptoms may include dark brown colored urine (due to blood pigment), fever, anemia, abdominal pain, and difficulty in breathing. The condition has been linked to secondary syphilis, tertiary syphilis, and other viral or bacterial infections.

The board certified allergists at Black & Kletz Allergy located in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area will readily answer any questions you have regarding your hives (i.e., urticarial), allergies, and/or asthma.  We have 3 offices with locations in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA.  All of our offices offer on-site parking.  In addition, the Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are accessible by Metro.  We also have a free shuttle that runs between our McLean, VA office and the Spring Hill metro station on the silver line.  Please make an appointment by calling any one of our 3 offices, or alternatively, you can click Request an Appointment and we will answer you within 24 hours by the next business day.  Black & Kletz Allergy diagnoses and treats both children and adults and we are proud to serve the Washington, DC metro area, which we have done for more than 5 decades.

Allergies in the Winter

As Winter approaches, many individuals may begin to complain of allergy symptoms that are similar, if not identical to, the classic hay fever (i.e., allergic rhinitis) symptoms that most people associate with the Spring and/or Fall seasons. These symptoms may include runny nose, nasal congestion, post-nasal drop, sneezing, itchy throat, itchy eyes, watery eyes, redness of the eyes, snoring, sinus congestion, and/or sinus headaches. In certain susceptible patients with asthma, exacerbations may also occur and these individuals may also experience chest tightness, wheezing, coughing, and/or shortness of breath. In addition, the cold air that occurs during the Winter as well as upper respiratory infections (URI’s) that are more common during the Winter may also be triggers for worsening of one’s asthma.

The most common and likely allergens to affect allergic individuals during the Winter are dust mites, molds, pets, and cockroaches. It should be noted that these allergens are perennial allergens as they can bother an allergic individual throughout the year.

Dust mites are the major component of dust and these mites are highly allergenic to certain individuals. They tend to live in bedding (i.e., pillows, mattresses, box springs), upholstered furniture, plush toys, and carpeting. It is important for dust-allergic patients to reduce their exposure to dust. This can be accomplished by covering their pillows, mattresses, and box springs with allergy proof encasings. These encasings help prevent someone from breathing in the dust mites thereby minimizing dust exposure.

Molds are ubiquitous and particularly bothersome and numerous in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area. Contrary to popular belief, molds may exist in both humid and dry environments. Washington, DC was built on a swamp, so mold growth is inherent in this area. Molds tend to be more prevalent in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Molds often are difficult to eradicate. Although the exact numbers are debatable, it is generally recommended that the humidity in the home be set to less than 50% and the temperature should be set below 78°F in order to help prevent mold growth.

Pets are a common source of allergies in a home. Cats, dogs, and birds are the primary culprits for most families. The pet should be limited to certain areas of the home and it is generally recommended that the pet stay out of the bedroom of the affected allergic individual. In addition to being allergic to the pet itself by way of its dander and/or urine, a pet can bring in outdoor allergens via their coat after being outdoors. It is not uncommon for a dog or cat to transfer pollens on their fur from the outside to the inside of one’s house. A common misconception is that some dogs are hypoallergenic. Although not technically correct, there does appear to be less allergy symptoms for some individuals who have certain breeds of dogs that typically do not shed their coats (i.e., poodle, Portuguese Water Dog, Maltese).

The mere mention of cockroaches can get anyone up in arms, however, exposure to cockroaches is quite common, particularly in those living in the inner cities. In fact, it is fairly common trigger in inner city children with asthma. Cockroaches survive in almost any condition and are far more numerous that they might appear. There are more than 4,600 species of cockroaches around the world, although only about 30 species are associated with human habitats. It is said that for every cockroach seen in the home, there are many more hiding. If you have cockroaches, it is advisable to contact a pest-control company in order to eradicate the cockroaches from your home.

In addition to allergic rhinitis and asthma that can be adversely affected in the Winter by the factors mentioned above, the cold temperatures of the Winter may also cause or aggravate certain skin conditions. Hives (i.e., urticaria), generalized itching (i.e., pruritus), and swelling episodes (angioedema) are skin conditions that are diagnosed and treated by board certified allergists, like the ones at Black & Kletz Allergy. The conditions are called cold-induced urticaria, cold-induced pruritus, and cold-induced angioedema respectively. In these maladies, the exposure to the cold can cause hives, generalized itching or swelling. Rarely, the cold can cause a more severe reaction known as anaphylaxis which is very serious and potentially fatal. This condition is called cold-induced anaphylaxis. Individuals with this condition should carry a self-injectable epinephrine device (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q, Adrenaclick) which is to be used if anaphylactic symptoms occur. One should always go to the closest emergency room after using a self-injectable epinephrine device as the device may only work for about 15-20 minutes.

If you suffer from allergic rhinitis, asthma, hives, generalized itching, swelling episodes, anaphylaxis, or cold-induced symptoms of any kind, the board certified allergy doctors at Black & Kletz Allergy have the expertise in order to diagnose and treat your condition. We treat both pediatric and adult patients and have offices in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA. We have on-site parking at each location and both the Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are Metro accessible. Please either call us for an appointment or you may alternatively click Request an Appointment and we will respond within 24 hours by the next business day. The allergy specialists at Black & Kletz Allergy have been treating allergy and asthma patients in the Washington, DC metro area for more than 50 years and we strive to provide state-of-the-art allergy care to the community.

Vocal Cord Dysfunction

The vocal cords are V-shaped tissue folds within our voice box (i.e., larynx). The gap between the arms of the V is the opening into our windpipe (i.e., trachea). These are dynamic structures and move with the contraction and relaxation of the muscles attached to them. Normally the vocal cords open when we inhale and exhale, allowing the air to get in and out of lungs. They close while we eat, blocking food from entering into the windpipe. The vocal cords become narrowed when we speak. It is the vibration of the vocal cords that generates voice.

When the vocal cords malfunction, they may become narrowed or even close when we inhale. This narrowing or closing will result in difficulty for air to enter the lungs which may cause a feeling of breathlessness. This shortness of breath may be confused with the symptoms of asthma. When this situation occurs, it is referred to as paradoxical vocal fold movement (PVFM) or vocal cord dysfunction (VCD).

In asthma, the airways (i.e., bronchial tubes) constrict and tighten, making breathing difficult. In vocal cord dysfunction, the vocal cord muscles tighten, which also makes breathing difficult. Unlike asthma, vocal cord dysfunction is not an allergic response. It is usually more difficult to inhale during an episode of vocal cord dysfunction. On the contrary, it is usually more difficult to exhale during an exacerbation of asthma. It is very important to differentiate vocal cord dysfunction from asthma since the treatments are quite different. One study showed that approximately 40% of individuals with vocal cord dysfunction are misdiagnosed as having asthma. It should be noted that in some instances, asthma and vocal cord dysfunction can coexist in a person at the same time.

Vocal cord dysfunction is found in people of all ages, although it tends to be more prevalent in individuals between the ages of 20-40. It is more common in women.

Symptoms:

  • Tightness of the throat
  • Hoarseness
  • Choking or suffocation feeling
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • High pitched noise during Inhalation (i.e., stridor)
  • Coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Frequent throat clearing

Causes and Triggers:

  • Strong odors, fumes, or other irritants
  • Upper respiratory infections (URI’s)
  • Post-nasal drip associated with allergic rhinitis (i.e., hay fever) or a URI
  • Acid reflux [i.e., gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)]
  • Exercise
  • Emotional stress

Diagnosis:

  • Comprehensive history of the symptoms and triggers
  • Breathing test (i.e., spirometry) with a flow/volume loop demonstrating diminished air entry into the lungs during an episode
  • Direct inspection of the of the vocal cord through a laryngoscope (i.e., flexible fiberoptic tube with a camera attached) during the episode revealing paradoxical movements
  • An episode may need to be “induced” either by exercise or by inhalation of a chemical called methacholine

Treatment:

There is very little role of medications in the management of this vocal cord dysfunction. The mainstay of treatment is behavioral techniques to relax the muscles in the throat that control the vocal cord movements.

  • Speech therapy by a trained and qualified speech pathologist and therapist is the main course of treatment. One may need several sessions of speech therapy and regular practice at home even during asymptomatic periods in order to manage vocal cord dysfunction.
  • Deep breathing techniques to reduce the discomfort and fear
  • Relaxation techniques, biofeedback, and psychotherapy have been shown to be helpful in controlling vocal cord dysfunction by reducing emotional stress
  • Better control of asthma, if it is co-existent
  • Managing post-nasal drip and acid reflux

The board certified allergy specialists at Black & Kletz Allergy have 3 convenient locations with on-site parking located in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA. The Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are Metro accessible and we offer a free shuttle that runs between the McLean, VA office and the Spring Hill metro station on the silver line. The allergy specialists at Black & Kletz Allergy are extremely knowledgeable about the most current treatment options for patients with vocal cord dysfunction, asthma, and related conditions and can promptly answer any of your questions. The allergy specialists at Black & Kletz Allergy diagnose and treat both pediatric and adult patients. To schedule an appointment, please call any of our offices or you may click Request an Appointment and we will respond within 24 hours by the next business day. We have been servicing the greater Washington, DC area for more than 50 years and we look forward to providing you with state-of-the-art allergy and asthma care in a welcoming and pleasant environment.

Thanksgiving and Food Allergies

Thanksgiving Day is usually a time when people gather with family and friends in order to be with each other, watch football, and of course, eat! Unless you or a family member has a food allergy, you may not think about food allergies or food sensitivities much. It is important however to be more than cognizant of the topic of food allergies especially if you are hosting a Thanksgiving Day celebration. One must learn that food allergies can be very serious and even fatal to some individuals. Cooking and preparing Thanksgiving Day food as well as collecting various dishes from other guests, which is commonly done during this holiday, must be taken very seriously with respect to food allergies and food sensitivities.

It is important to note that approximately 4% of adults and 5% of children in the U.S. have food allergies. The most common 8 food allergens are milk, egg, soy, wheat, peanut, tree nut, fish, and shellfish. These 8 foods cause nearly 90% of most food allergy reactions.

It should be noted that peanuts are not actually nuts because they grow from the ground and not from a tree. Peanuts are classified as legumes and are closely related to other legumes such as beans (e.g., black, lima, navy, kidney, pinto, fava, lupin, mung, soybeans), chickpeas (i.e., garbanzo beans), lentils, and peas. Most allergists instruct their peanut allergic patients to avoid all legumes in addition to avoiding peanuts.

Knowing the above information, the person hosting a Thanksgiving holiday celebration should ask their guests if they have a food allergy or food sensitivity. They should also inform their guests who are preparing and/or bringing food to the host/hostess’ house about any food allergies or food sensitivities that any of the guests have so they can provide a list of ingredients used in their dishes. The goal is to make sure that the food-allergic or food-sensitive individual does not ingest any of the offending food allergen on purpose or accidentally.

When one thinks of Thanksgiving, the food most thought of is turkey. Although a turkey allergy is not very common, it is more common to have individuals experience sleepiness or fatigue after eating turkey meat. This adverse reaction to turkey is not an allergy, but classified as a food sensitivity to the amino acid “L-tryptophan.” L-tryptophan is found in high levels in turkey meat. The L-tryptophan travels from the gastrointestinal tract to the brain where it is converted to a serotonin. It is this chemical, serotonin, that is responsible for causing this sleepiness or fatigue.

There are 2 other common food sensitivities that should be known to all. The first food sensitivity is called “lactose intolerance.” It occurs when the body is unable to fully digest the sugar called lactose which is commonly found in milk and dairy products. This inability to break down lactose is due to a lack or decreased amount of the enzyme lactase. Lactose intolerance may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as abdominal bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, and/or diarrhea in affected individuals. The second food sensitivity one hears a lot about recently is called “gluten intolerance” or “gluten sensitivity.” No one is exactly sure of the mechanism of gluten intolerance but individuals with this condition experience abdominal bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and/or constipation after eating foods containing gluten (i.e., wheat, barley, rye). Some patients also complain of fatigue and headaches as well. The symptoms resemble individuals with wheat allergy (i.e., celiac disease) and/or irritable bowel syndrome. Unlike celiac disease, however, gluten sensitivity does not cause damage the intestines.

The gravy used for turkey and mashed potatoes commonly contains dairy (e.g., milk), wheat, and/or soy. It is important to remember that tiny amounts of a food allergen may be all that is necessary to cause a severe allergic reaction is a sensitive individual. One must be careful about every ingredient in a food or dish.

Common food allergens such as milk, egg, soy, wheat, nuts, and peanuts are often found around the Thanksgiving Day table. Tree nuts are frequently found on string beans as well as in some types of stuffing.  Tree nuts and peanuts are common in many desserts such as brownies, cookies, cakes, and pecan pie.  Eggs and milk (i.e., dairy) are also used in many baked goods.  Although pumpkin allergies are not common, pumpkin pie may contain an assortment of ingredients that may trigger a food allergy in susceptible allergic individuals.  Many families incorporate a multitude of ethnic foods in their celebrations.  These cultural foods may not be traditional, but they increase the possibility of other allergenic foods such as fish and shellfish to be the causative agent of an approaching food allergy.  If someone has a serious food allergy, it is sensible for that person to bring their own food rather than eat food in which they are not 100% sure of its ingredients and origin.

The board certified allergists at Black & Kletz Allergy have been diagnosing and managing food allergies, other allergies, and asthma for more than 50 years in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area. We have convenient locations in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA. Each office has on-site parking. The Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are Metro accessible and there is a free shuttle that runs between our McLean, VA office and the Spring Hill metro station on the silver line. Please call for an appointment if you would like a consultation with one of our allergists, or alternatively, you can click Request an Appointment and we will respond within 24 hours by the next business day. Black & Kletz Allergy prides itself in providing quality allergy and asthma care to the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area community.

Hypereosinophilic Syndrome

Eosinophils are types of white blood cells which are part of our normal immune system. They tend to be elevated in allergic disorders. Eosinophils also play an important role in protecting us from certain infections and infestations from parasitic organisms.

Hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) refers to a condition where there are excessive numbers of eosinophils in the bloodstream. Normally there are less than 500 eosinophils per microliter of blood. HES is defined as having equal or more than 1,500 eosinophils per microliter consistently for more than 6 months.

Though we need eosinophils for defending us from microbes and helminths (i.e., parasitic worms), excessive numbers can be deleterious. These cells accumulate in tissues and cause inflammation. The resultant inflammation may lead to dysfunction of various organs. The most common organs that are typically affected are the skin, heart, lungs, bone marrow, gastrointestinal tract, and nervous system.

The exact prevalence of this condition is unknown however, it is estimated to occur in between 1 and 9 persons per 100,000 population. It is found equally in both sexes and is most common in middle-aged individuals, though it can occur in any age group.

Causes:

Certain genetic abnormalities in chromosome 4 were observed in some affected individuals. Infestations by helminths (e.g., roundworm, hookworm) could be a trigger for this condition in a few individuals. In a vast majority of cases however, no cause can be identified. When no cause is recognized, the condition is called idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome.

Symptoms:

The organ system and corresponding symptoms of hypereosinophilic syndrome may include the following:

Diagnosis:

The diagnostic tests are individualized according to the particular symptoms of the patient and may include:

  • Blood test to screen for number of eosinophils
  • Stool evaluation to detect a parasitic infection
  • Allergy testing to diagnose environmental, medication, and/or food allergies
  • Biopsies of the skin or other organs
  • Blood tests to screen for autoimmunity
  • CT imaging of the affected organs
  • Genetic and molecular studies
  • Chest X-ray and echocardiogram
  • Liver and kidney function tests
  • Serum tryptase levels
  • Miscellaneous tests to evaluate for cancers

Treatment:

The treatment for hypereosinophilic syndrome is aimed at reducing the numbers of eosinophils in order to prevent or restrict tissue damage and preserve organ function. Some of the medications that are used to treat HES may include:

  • Corticosteroids: Prednisone, dexamethasone
  • Chemotherapeutic agents: Hydroxyurea, chlorambucil, vincristine
  • Cytokines: Interferon alpha
  • Tyrosine kinase inhibitors: Gleevec (i.e., imatinib) is also used to treat acute lymphocytic leukemia and chronic myelogenous leukemia that are Philadelphia chromosome-positive, certain types of gastrointestinal stromal tumors, chronic eosinophilic leukemia, systemic mastocytosis, and myelodysplastic syndrome.
  • Monoclonal antibodies: Nucala (i.e., mepolizumab was approved by the FDA for the treatment of hypereosinophilic syndrome in the last week of September 2020 for patients 12 years of age and above at the dose of 300 mg. subcutaneous injection every 4 weeks.

Prognosis:

The outlook for hypereosinophilic syndrome has improved significantly in recent years. In 1975, only 12% of HES patients survived 3 years. Today in 2020, more than 80% of HES patients survive 5 years or more.

The board certified allergists of Black & Kletz Allergy have been diagnosing and treating both adults and children in the Washington, DC, Northern VA, and Maryland metropolitan area for over 5 decades. We have offices in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA. There is on-site parking at all of the offices. The Washington, DC and McLean, VA office locations are Metro accessible and there is a free shuttle that runs between our McLean office and the Spring Hill metro station on the silver line. Our allergy doctors of Black & Kletz Allergy specialize in all types of allergic conditions including hypereosinophilic syndrome. They are also experts in the treatment of allergic rhinitis (i.e., hay fever), asthma, sinus disease, hives (i.e., urticaria) , eczema (atopic dermatitis), swelling problems, medication and food allergies, and immunological disorders. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please call us or alternatively you can click Request an Appointment and we will respond back to you within 24 hours on the next business day. Our goal at Black & Kletz Allergy is to serve the greater Washington, DC metropolitan community with top-notch allergy care with boundless dedication and great pride as we have done for many years.

Sinus Infections

Sinus infections are quite common. They can vary in severity from being a nuisance on one end of the spectrum to severe and debilitating on the other end. The sinuses referred to in “sinus infections” are actually called “paranasal” sinuses because they are “near the nose.” Paranasal sinuses are cavities in the cranial and facial bones (i.e, skull) near the nose which help in filtering and moisturizing inhaled air that is inhaled through the nose. They also lighten the weight of the skull and are involved with voice resonance. There are 4 pairs of sinuses named for the corresponding bone that they are situated upon:

  • Maxillary sinuses: Located on the cheekbones to the right and left of the nostrils.
  • Frontal sinuses: Located above the eyes in the forehead region.
  • Ethmoid sinuses: Located on each side of the upper nose between the eyes.
  • Sphenoid sinuses: Located behind the eyes in the deeper recesses of the skull.

In the medical field, sinus infections are referred to as “sinusitis.” Technically, the word sinusitis means inflammation of the sinuses. Sinusitis can be classified into 4 main types: acute sinusitis, subacute sinusitis, chronic sinusitis, and recurrent sinusitis.

  • Acute sinusitis: Lasts less than 4 weeks. Usually comes on suddenly. Most often caused by viruses such as the common cold, although bacteria and less often, fungi are responsible for this type of sinusitis. Allergic rhinitis (i.e., hay fever) is a risk factor.
  • Subacute sinusitis: Lasts 4-12 weeks. Commonly occurs with bacterial infections or partially treated infections. Allergic rhinitis is a risk factor.
  • Chronic sinusitis: Lasts greater than 12 weeks. Commonly occurs with bacterial or rarely fungal sinus infections. Partially treated acute or subacute sinus infections may fester into a chronic sinus infection. Allergic rhinitis is a risk factor.
  • Recurrent sinusitis: Sinus infection occurs 4 or more times a year.

Sinus infections are usually caused by viruses; however, bacteria, fungi, and parasites can also infect the sinuses. It should be noted that bacterial sinus infections are much more common than fungal infections and parasitic infections of the sinuses are quite rare. Sinus infections occur when fluid builds up in the air-filled sinus cavities. In addition to the fluid buildup, the affected sinuses become inflamed. This inflammation causes an increase in the internal pressure of these sinuses. As a result, some common symptoms of a sinus infection may include the following:
Nasal congestion

  • Post-nasal drip (i.e., mucus dripping down the back of the throat)
  • Sore throat
  • Cough
  • Facial pain or pressure
  • Headache
  • Bad breath
  • Exacerbation of asthma

Although anyone can come down with a sinus infection, there are a number of risk factors that facilitate one’s likelihood of developing a sinus infection. Some risk factors for sinus infections may include:

  • Allergic rhinitis (i.e., hay fever)
  • Previous “cold” or viral upper respiratory infection (URI)
  • Structural abnormalities of the nose or sinuses
  • Smoking and/or exposure to smoke
  • Nasal polyps
  • Immunodeficiency (i.e., weakened immune system)

Diagnosis:

The diagnosis of an acute or subacute sinus infection is often made by the history and physical examination alone. Rhinoscopy is sometimes utilized as a tool to visualize the nasal passages and sinuses in individuals with any type of sinus infection. During rhinoscopy, a thin flexible tube with a fiber-optic light at the end is inserted in the nose. In patients with either chronic or recurrent sinus infections, a CT scan of the sinuses may be needed in order to establish the diagnosis. Rarely, a culture from the sinus is taken in order to either diagnose fungal sinusitis or to determine which antibiotic is necessary to treat a recalcitrant bacterial sinus infection.

Treatment:

Most sinus infections resolve without any treatment. This may be because most sinus infections are viral in nature. Nasal corticosteroids are often prescribed to help treat the inflammation associated with sinus infections. Decongestants may also be recommended in certain people depending on their underlying medical history. Bacterial sinus infections are normally treated with oral antibiotics. Amoxicillin or Augmentin (i.e., amoxicillin + clavulanic acid) is the antibiotic of choice for most areas in the U.S. unless an individual is allergic to penicillin. Whereas antibiotics are typically prescribed for 10-14 days for an acute sinus infection, the course of an antibiotic for a chronic sinus infection is typically 3-4 weeks in duration. Rest and fluids are also generally recommended. Breathing in steam from a hot shower or bowl of hot water brings symptomatic relief in many sufferers. Using saline irrigation in the form of a nasal spray or a Neti pot is helpful in some people. Pain relievers may need to be taken for individuals who have accompanying fever, headache, and/or sinus pain.

It should be emphasized that allergies (i.e., allergic rhinitis) play an important role in the development of sinus infections in many individuals. It is thus important to see a board certified allergist if you or someone you know suffers from sinus infections, as an underlying allergy may make that individual more susceptible to getting sinus infections.

The board certified allergy specialist physicians at Black and Kletz Allergy have over 50 years of experience in diagnosing and treating all types of sinus infections. We treat both pediatric and adult patients. Black & Kletz Allergy has 3 convenient locations with on-site parking located in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA. The Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are Metro accessible and we offer a free shuttle that runs between the McLean, VA office and the Spring Hill metro station on the silver line. To schedule an appointment, please call any of our offices or you may click Request an Appointment and we will respond within 24 hours by the next business day. We have been servicing the greater Washington, DC metropolitan area for many decades and we look forward to providing you with the utmost state-of-the-art allergy care in a friendly and pleasant environment.

The Flu – What You Need to Know

Viruses cause a variety of illnesses in humans ranging from mild upper respiratory infections (URI’s) to life-threatening pulmonary and extra-pulmonary diseases. Rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), coronaviruses, and influenza are the most common viruses infecting the respiratory tract. Among these rhinoviruses, RSV and influenza viruses are common causes of wheezing in children. Recurrent infections with these viruses may play a role in the development of asthma.

Patients with asthma are more susceptible to contract infections with influenza virus. In addition, they are also more likely to develop serious complications from Influenza. In fact, more than 75% of acute flare-ups of asthma are triggered by infections from either influenza, RSV, or rhinovirus infections.

Influenza infection (i.e., flu) normally occurs in the United States between October and March, although the peak time for infection is between January and March. There are 3 strains of influenza viruses that cause human infections and one other that does not. The ones that cause human infections are known by the names influenza A, influenza B, and influenza C. Influenza D is not known to infect or cause illness in humans and primarily infects cattle.

Influenza A and B are typically associated with seasonal epidemics of disease, known as the flu season. Influenza A is the only influenza virus that has been associated with flu pandemics. There have been several flu pandemics during the 20th century, each with its own severity and outcome. For example, in 1918, the “Spanish flu”, a strain of H1N1 influenza A subtype H1N1, caused between 50 and 100 million deaths worldwide with a mortality rate of 2.5 to 3%. Most of the deaths occurred in adults between the ages of 20 and 40 years. In 1957, the “Asian flu” (influenza A subtype H2N2) caused between 1.5 and 2 million deaths and had a fatality rate of 0.67%. In 1968, the “Hong Kong flu” (influenza A subtype H3N2) has been estimated to have caused between 1 and 4 million deaths and had a mortality rate of less than 0.5%.

Influenza infection begins with invasion of the respiratory epithelium which serves as a site for both viral replication and the host’s immune response. Destruction of the normal airway tissue and a pro-inflammatory immune response are the primary causes of symptoms associated with influenza infection.

The immune response of the host causes many of the symptoms associated with viral respiratory infections and those associated with exacerbations of underlying asthma. Certain individuals seem to be at higher risk for developing infection in the lower airway. The risk of infection increases in children less than 6 months of age, individuals with second-hand smoke exposure, and in people with certain genetic markers. Allergic individuals are also more susceptible to infection due to an impaired immune response.

The classic symptoms of the flu may include:

  • Runny nose
  • Nasal congestion
  • Sore throat
  • Cough
  • Fever/chills
  • Achiness
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Fatigue/Lethargy

Complications of the flu may include:

  • Pneumonia
  • Flare-ups of asthma symptoms
  • Ear infections
  • Inflammation of the heart muscle
  • Inflammation of the brain

Treatment of the Flu:

Most cases of influenza are mild and the symptoms usually resolve in 7 to 10 days. Symptomatic relief of fevers, chills, and achiness can be achieved by over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (i.e., Tylenol). Antihistamines and decongestants may be utilized to help reduce the unwanted nasal symptoms. Inhaled medications such as albuterol (e.g., Proventil, Ventolin, ProAir) are given to help relieve wheezing, coughing, and/or shortness of breath. Rest and drinking plenty of fluids may accelerate the recovery process overall.

The indications for antiviral medications include patients that are at high risk of influenza-related complications including pregnant women, adults over 65 years of age, immune-compromised subjects, and those with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and diabetes. Antivirals should be used if an individual requires hospitalization, if the infection is severe or complicated, and during pregnancy (even in mild disease).

Antiviral treatment works best when begun soon after the flu illness begins. When treatment is started within 2 days of becoming sick with flu symptoms, antiviral drugs can lessen fever and flu symptoms and shorten the duration of illness. They also may reduce the risk of complications such as ear infections in children, respiratory complications requiring antibiotics, and hospitalization in adults.

  • Oseltamivir (i.e., Tamiflu) is available as a pill or liquid suspension and is FDA approved for the early treatment of the flu in individuals 2 weeks of age and older who have had flu symptoms for 2 days or less.
  • Zanamivir (i.e., Relenza) is a powder that is inhaled and approved for the early treatment of the flu in people 7 years of age and older. Note: Zanamivir is administered using an inhaler device and is not recommended for individuals with breathing problems such as asthma or COPD.
  • Oseltamivir and zanamivir are given twice a day for 5 days.
  • Baloxavir (i.e., Xofluza) is a pill given as a single dose by mouth and is approved for the early treatment of flu in individuals 12 years of age and older. Note: Baloxavir is not recommended for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, severely immunosuppressed individuals, hospitalized patients, or outpatients with complicated or progressive illness.

Prevention of the Flu:

Staying home and avoiding contact with others will reduce the risk of acquiring influenza infection.

Routine annual influenza vaccination (i.e., flu shot) is recommended for all persons 6 months of age and older. Many types of flu vaccines are licensed by the FDA this year with varying indications based on one’s age group and health status. Please click on the following CDC link for more information: cdc.gov/flu/prevent/keyfacts.htm

The board certified allergists at Black & Kletz Allergy located in the Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland metropolitan area will readily answer any questions you have regarding the flu, asthma, and/or allergies. We have 3 offices with locations in Washington, DC, McLean, VA (Tysons Corner, VA), and Manassas, VA. All of our offices offer on-site parking. In addition, the Washington, DC and McLean, VA offices are accessible by Metro. There is also a free shuttle that runs between our McLean, VA office and the Spring Hill metro station on the silver line. Kindly make an appointment by calling one of our 3 offices. Alternatively, you may click Request an Appointment and we will answer your inquiry within 24 hours by the next business day. Black & Kletz Allergy treats both children and adults and we are proud to serve the Washington, DC metro area residents for which we have done for more than 5 decades.