ATAK

N. Kounis, V. Mplani, C. de Gregorio, I. Koniari

The adrenaline, takotsubo, anaphylaxis, and Kounis (ATAK) complex constitutes a challenging contemporary clinicopharmacological combination of syndrome ATAK.1 “Αttacking” is needed to elucidate its etiology and pathophysiology and implement preventive and therapeutic measures. Adrenaline is considered the drug of choice for anaphylactic shock; however, its administration, especially in excess doses, could contribute to coronary spasms. Moreover, coronary spasms through direct myocardial stunning can lead to Takotsubo syndrome (TS).2 During anaphylaxis, the released mediators can also initiate coronary spasms and again TS.3 Adrenaline administration as hemodynamic support during anaphylactic shock could also increase the plasma catecholamine levels and perpetuate this vicious cycle. Kounis syndrome has also been associated with TS.4

P. Minciullo, Giuliana Amato, Federica Vita, G. Pioggia, S. Gangemi

Anaphylactic events triggered by mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are neither serious nor frequent. Kounis syndrome is described as the concomitant occurrence of acute coronary events and hypersensitivity reactions induced by vasospastic mediators after an allergic event. Kounis syndrome caused by vaccines is very rare. Up to now, only a few cases of allergic myocardial infarction after mRNA COVID-19 vaccine administration have been reported. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a syndrome characterized by transient wall movement abnormalities of the left ventricular apex, mid-ventricle, or other myocardial distribution, usually triggered by intense emotional or physical stress. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy after COVID-19 vaccine administration has been reported, usually with a delayed onset. A new entity characterized by the association of adrenaline administration, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, anaphylaxis, and Kounis hypersensitivity was recently described: the ATAK complex. Here, we report a case of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy that occurred together with an anaphylactic reaction to an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine that required the use of adrenaline. The timing of the allergic reaction and the referenced clinical symptoms could not exclude the idea that Kounis syndrome occurred. Therefore, we can assume the patient presented the ATAK complex. We believe that highlighting on this ATAK complex will aid the application of proper diagnostic, preventive and therapeutic measures.

P. Puri, M. Kachhadia, Princy Sardana, Ridhi Bhagat, Sammir S Dekowski, Emmanuel Fohle

The convergence of takotsubo and Kounis syndromes, collectively referred to as the "ATAK complex" (short for adrenaline, takotsubo, anaphylaxis, and Kounis syndrome), poses a unique and challenging clinical scenario, especially in the context of chemotherapy-related anaphylaxis. We present a case report involving a 63-year-old woman undergoing chemotherapy for endometrial adenocarcinoma who experienced anaphylactic symptoms during treatment. Immediate administration of epinephrine was followed by the emergence of ST elevation, a reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, and wall motion abnormalities indicative of stress-induced cardiomyopathy. Detailed investigations revealed normal coronary arteries, prompting further exploration into the intricacies of the ATAK complex. Notably, the administration of intravenous rather than intramuscular epinephrine was identified as a contributing factor. This case underscores the critical importance of recognizing and managing the ATAK complex promptly, emphasizing the need for refined diagnostic and treatment guidelines. The interplay between adrenaline, takotsubo, anaphylaxis, and Kounis syndrome necessitates a nuanced approach, urging healthcare professionals to exercise caution and adhere to recommended administration routes. Increased awareness of the ATAK complex is imperative for optimizing patient outcomes and guiding therapeutic interventions in similar clinical scenarios. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and refine strategies for the effective management of this intricate syndrome.

Sheng Li, Peng Ding, Chun-Xia Wang, Kunlan Long, Pei-yang Gao

Background Adrenaline, stress cardiomyopathy, allergic reactions, and Kounis syndrome (Adrenaline, Takotsubo, Anaphylaxis, Kounis Complex, ATAK) constitute a complex clinical syndrome often associated with endogenous or exogenous adrenaline. Due to its rapid onset, severity, and treatment challenges, it warrants significant attention from clinicians. This article reports a case of Type II Kounis syndrome combined with stress cardiomyopathy (ATAK) triggered by a latamoxef-induced allergy. Case report A 67-year-old male patient with an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was admitted to the respiratory department for treatment. The day before discharge, after receiving a latamoxef infusion for 27 min, the patient developed wheezing, dyspnea, chills, profuse sweating, and an elevated body temperature, necessitating transfer to the ICU for monitoring and treatment. The ECG suggested a suspected myocardial infarction, while bedside echocardiography showed a left ventricular ejection fraction of 40%, segmental dysfunction of the left ventricle, and apical rounding. Emergency coronary angiography revealed 50% segmental eccentric stenosis in the mid-segment of the left anterior descending branch and right coronary artery. The final diagnosis was Type II Kounis Syndrome combined with stress cardiomyopathy due to a latamoxef-induced allergy, i.e., ATAK. Despite aggressive treatment, the patient succumbed to severe cardiogenic shock on the third day in the ICU. Conclusion ATAK is a critical condition that progresses rapidly. For patients experiencing severe allergic reactions, monitoring biomarkers such as Troponin and ECG changes is crucial for timely recognition. If a patient is diagnosed with Kounis syndrome, caution should be exercised in using adrenaline to prevent ATAK.