This episode of the Long COVID Clinical Podcast, hosted by Drs. Anita Chopra, Tiffany Walker, Andrew Schamess, and Aaron Friedberg, features Dr. Andrew Ayers, a specialist in allergy and immunology. The discussion focuses on the immunological processes involved in long COVID, including immune dysregulation, immune deficiency, and the role of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). Dr. Ayers explains the complexities of the immune system's response to long COVID, potential treatments like high-dose antihistamines and other therapies, and the impact of COVID and vaccinations on immune reactions. He also delves into patient phenotypes, drug allergies, and the gut microbiome's influence on immune responses. The episode concludes with a comprehensive review of MCAS management strategies and emphasizes the challenges faced by clinicians treating long COVID.

Edited and Produced by Christopher Chiu