Background:

Kounis syndrome is characterized by the appearance of acute coronary events in the context of a hypersensitivity reaction, described by Nicholas G Kounis and GM Zavras in 1991, the researchers state that, although its diagnosis is unusual, it may not be a rare condition, but underdiagnosed. Currently, there are no clinical practice guidelines for proper management.

Objective:

to update knowledge about Kounis syndrome.

Methods:

a bibliographic review was performed through the Internet search engines, Google Scholar and ResearchGate, the Pubmed, SciELO and Clinicalkey databases were consulted. The descriptor in health science: Kounis syndrome was used to obtain the information in articles with a high citation index, published until May 2019 in the Spanish or English languages. From them, 53 quotes were selected for review, most of them from last five years, 30 were case reports, and four books were used.

Results:

the historical evolution of Kounis syndrome is addressed from its initial description to the present, as well as its classification, clinical manifestations, diagnostic tests and treatment.

Conclusions:

Kounis syndrome may not be a rare condition, but underdiagnosed. Its pathophysiological mechanisms are diverse, complex and are under study. For the diagnosis, a high index of suspicion must be taken in the context of a patient with anaphylaxis and acute coronary syndrome, this will be based on an adequate clinical evaluation and complementary examinations. The practitioner must show great expertise in reconciling therapy, since the drugs used in acute coronary syndrome can worsen anaphylaxis and vice versa. Clinical practice guidelines areneeded for proper management.

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