Anaphylaxis with Anisakis simplex in the Gastric Mucosa

Abstract

To the Editor: Anisakis simplex is a nematode (Anisakidae family, Ascaridoidea superfamily) that parasitizes sea mammals. Common intermediary hosts include the codfish, hake, sardine, anchovy, salmon, tuna, mackerel, and squid.1 Humans acquire the larvae by eating raw or undercooked seafood.2 Anisakis larvae can be invasive, penetrating the host's stomach or intestinal wall,3 but it is very unusual to find the nematode in the gastric mucosa. We have seen three patients with allergic reactions and clinical findings that led us to suspect acute gastric anisakiasis. A 47-year-old woman had anaphylaxis, vomiting, and gastric pain two hours after eating raw anchovy in . . .