Hypersensitivity Reactions (hypersensitivity + reaction)

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Distribution within Medical Sciences

Kinds of Hypersensitivity Reactions

  • contact hypersensitivity reaction
  • delayed hypersensitivity reaction
  • delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction
  • immediate hypersensitivity reaction
  • type hypersensitivity reaction


  • Selected Abstracts


    RENAL IMPAIRMENT AND HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTION DUE TO EFAVIRENZ

    NEPHROLOGY, Issue 6 2008
    ELIZABETH CURRY
    [source]


    Systemic Vasculitis with Severe Cutaneous Manifestation as a Suspected Idiosyncratic Hypersensitivity Reaction to Fenbendazole in a Cat

    JOURNAL OF VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 3 2008
    S. Jasani
    First page of article [source]


    Hypersensitivity reactions associated with endovascular devices

    CONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 1 2008
    Golara Honari
    Allergic reactions to endoprostheses are uncommon and reported in association with orthopaedic, dental, endovascular and other implanted devices. Hypersensitivity reactions to the biomaterials used in endovascular prostheses are among the infrequent reactions that may lead to local or systemic complications following cardiovascular therapeutic interventions. This article reviews potential immunotoxic effects of commonly used biomaterials. Reports of putative hypersensitivity reactions to endovascular devices, including coronary stents, perforated foramen occluders, pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators are also reviewed. [source]


    BRIEF COMMUNICATION: Rapid and sequential desensitization to both aspirin and clopidogrel

    INTERNAL MEDICINE JOURNAL, Issue 8 2010
    S. L. Fernando
    Abstract Hypersensitivity reactions to aspirin and clopidogrel are 2.5% and 1%, respectively. Dual anti-platelet therapy with these drugs is effective in preventing thrombosis following deployment of stents for cerebrovascular and cardiovascular syndromes. Desensitization therapy with both aspirin and clopidogrel may be required for patients undergoing stent implantation that have experienced hypersensitivity to these agents. We report the case of a 58-year-old woman who developed urticaria and angioedema following aspirin therapy for ischaemic cerebrovascular disease. She developed an identical reaction after clopidogrel was subsequently administered. Investigations revealed the presence of an internal carotid artery aneurysm that required deployment of a stent. Rapid desensitization to aspirin over 5.5 h followed 3 days later by rapid desensitization to clopidogrel over 2.5 h was successfully performed prior to stenting. After 4 months she has tolerated this dual anti-platelet therapy without any adverse reaction. Rapid and sequential desensitization to both aspirin and clopidogrel can be successfully performed for patients who require stent deployment but have hypersensitivity to both these anti-platelet agents. [source]


    Hypersensitivity reactions to penicillins: studies in a group of patients with negative benzylpenicillin G skin test

    JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PHARMACY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 3 2009
    H.-L. Qiao MD PhD
    Summary Background:, Although skin tests are usually employed to evaluate current penicillin allergy status, a negative result does not exclude hypersensitivity. There is a need for accurate in vitro tests to exclude hypersensitivity. A radioallergosorbent test (RAST) is a potentially good supplementary approach, but there is little information on the suitability of this method to diagnose penicillin hypersensitivity in subjects with a negative skin test to benzylpenicillin. Methods:, A total of 133 patients with a negative skin test to benzylpenicillin G (PG) and all of whom developed allergic reactions to PG were studied. RAST was used to detect eight kinds of specific IgE antibodies to penicillins in serum, which included four kinds of major and minor antigenic determinants to four penicillin drugs. The combination sites for the specific IgE antibodies were studied by RAST inhibition test. Results:, The rate of positive reactions for the specific IgE antibodies was 59·40% (79/133). Of the eight kinds of antigenic determinants, the positive rates for specific IgE against the major and minor determinants were 39·10% (52) and 42·86% (57) respectively. Of the four drugs, positive cases only to PG were 10 (7·5%), were significantly fewer than the cross-reacting positive cases (36) to PG (P < 0·01). In the RAST inhibition studies all drugs exhibited good inhibitory potencies, and in some instances the side-chain of the penicillins could induce specific responses with a variable degree of cross-reactivity among the different penicillins. Conclusion:, Radioallergosorbent test is a good complementary test in persons who are skin-test negative with PG, and the sensitivity of RAST increaes with increasing specificity of IgE antibodies to be detected. 6-APA and the groups, making part of the different side-chains on penicillins, all contributed to the cross-reactivity. [source]


    Management of complications after implantation of fillers

    JOURNAL OF COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY, Issue 1 2004
    Koenraad De Boulle
    Summary Soft tissue augmentation is widely practised by a variety of different practitioners. A new classification of filler substances and procedures, taking into account long-term safety and reversibility of side effects, is proposed: i non-permanent and biodegradable, ii,semi-permanent and biodegradable, iii,permanent and reversible, iv,permanent and non-reversible. Complications and adverse effects occur with all fillers and all filler procedures. Insufficient experience is an important contributory factor. Underreporting is probably common. Commonest are haematomas, ecchymoses, infections, papulopustular or acneiform lesions, non-hypersensitivity related swelling and oedema, erythema, changes in pigmentation, palpability of the implant and necrosis of overlying tissue. Specific therapeutic approaches for these complications and practical recommendations to minimize or avoid them are discussed. Hypersensitivity reactions and granuloma formation are the most distressing adverse effects. They can occur with most fillers. Mostly these hypersensitivity reactions are local granulomas but, rarely, generalized reactions also occur. Case reports of systemic reactions after injection of hyaluronic acid are documented. Treatments include steroids, minocycline and immunomodulatory agents, such as cyclosporin, tacrolimus and ascomycin. In selected cases, surgical procedures are necessary to elimirate granulomatous reactions. Implant migration and facial lipoatrophy are encountered with certain compounds. Extreme caution is therefore advocated before using permanent and non-reversible products for soft tissue augmentation. Those who use fillers need to be familiar with the complications of fillers and with the treatment of those complications. [source]


    Gender and long-term metabolic toxicities from antiretroviral therapy in HIV-1 infected persons,

    JOURNAL OF MEDICAL VIROLOGY, Issue 9 2006
    Mohamed-Rachid Boulassel
    Abstract Gender differences in a large population-based cohort of HIV-1 infected patients (245 women and 723 men) were examined with respect to the incidence of metabolic and morphologic alterations after initiation of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Patients initiated HAART between January 1996 and December 2003. The outcome measures were the incidence of hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, symptomatic lactic acidosis, treatment-limiting lipodystrophy, and hypersensitivity reaction. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the crude and adjusted hazard ratios of reaching the endpoints for exposures and covariates. Women were younger than men (35,±,9.8 vs. 40,±,8.2 years, P,<,0.001) and more frequently from Haiti or Africa (59%), whereas 76% of men were Canadian-born. Type of initial HAART regimen did not differ between women and men. There were no gender differences in the overall incidence of hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, or treatment-limiting lipodystrophy, even after adjusting for age, CD4 cell count, viral load, time since HIV diagnosis, history of AIDS-defining illness and year of HAART initiation. In contrast, women had significantly higher risk of developing lactic acidosis than men (P,=,0.0009). Hypersensitivity reactions were also more frequent in women than men (adjusted hazard ratio,=,4.4 (95% CI: 2.1,9.3)). Collectively, these data suggest that metabolic toxicities after HAART do not differ by gender but that lactic acidosis and hypersensitivity reactions are more frequent in women than men. J. Med. Virol. 78:1158,1163, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


    Hypersensitivity reactions to the polysorbate contained in recombinant erythropoietin and darbepoietin (Case Report)

    NEPHROLOGY, Issue 3 2005
    RICHARD H STEELE
    SUMMARY: The following case reports are of two patients who have developed hypersensitivity reactions to the red cell growth hormones, darbepoietin and erythropoietin. The subsequent skin testing and clinical course suggested that the cause of these reactions was due to the excipient polysorbate 80. This finding might have implications in the recent increase in the incidence of pure red cell aplasia. [source]


    Hypersensitivity Myocarditis Presenting as Atrioventricular Block and Wide Complex Tachycardia in a Toddler

    CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE, Issue 5 2008
    Neil Bhogal MD
    ABSTRACT A 13-month-old boy presented with acute onset of complete atrioventricular block and wide complex tachycardia but normal hemodynamics. Endomyocardial biopsy disclosed active myocarditis with eosinophils, suggesting a hypersensitivity reaction. With no treatment, the rhythm disturbance resolved within days of onset. Our patient's presentation and self-limited illness is unique. To our knowledge, this is only the second reported case of eosinophilic myocarditis in a young child or infant. [source]


    Type 1 hypersensitivity reaction to carboxymethylcellulose following intra-articular triamcinolone injection

    CONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 5 2009
    Sinead Field
    No abstract is available for this article. [source]


    Anaphylaxis: Clinical concepts and research priorities

    EMERGENCY MEDICINE AUSTRALASIA, Issue 2 2006
    Simon GA Brown
    Abstract Anaphylaxis is a severe immediate-type hypersensitivity reaction characterized by life-threatening upper airway obstruction bronchospasm and hypotension. Although many episodes are easy to diagnose by the combination of characteristic skin features with other organ effects, this is not always the case and a workable clinical definition of anaphylaxis and useful biomarkers of the condition have been elusive. A recently proposed consensus definition is ready for prospective validation. The cornerstones of management are the supine position, adrenaline and volume resuscitation. An intramuscular dose of adrenaline is generally recommended to initiate treatment. If additional adrenaline is required, then a controlled intravenous infusion might be more efficacious and safer than intravenous bolus administration. Additional bronchodilator treatment with continuous salbutamol and corticosteroids are used for severe and/or refractory bronchospasm. Aggressive volume resuscitation, selective vasopressors, atropine (for bradycardia), inotropes that bypass the ,-adrenoreceptor and bedside echocardiographic assessment should be considered for hypotension that is refractory to treatment. Management guidelines continue to be opinion- and consensus-based, with retrospective studies accounting for the vast majority of clinical research papers on the topic. The clinical spectrum of anaphylaxis including major disease subgroups requires clarification, and validated scoring systems and outcome measures are needed to enable good-quality prospective observational studies and randomized controlled trials. A systematic approach with multicentre collaboration is required to improve our understanding and management of this disease. [source]


    In vitro -induced Th17 cells fail to induce inflammation in vivo and show an impaired migration into inflamed sites

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 4 2010
    Marko Janke
    Abstract Recently, IL-17 produced by Th17 cells was described as pro-inflammatory cytokine with an eminent role in autoimmune diseases, e.g. rheumatoid arthritis. A lack of IL-17 leads to amelioration of collagen-induced arthritis. IL-17 induction in naďve CD4+ T cells depends on IL-6 and TGF-, and is enhanced by IL-23. The in vivo inflammatory potential of in vitro -primed Th17 cells however, remains unclear. Here, we show that, although IL-17 neutralisation results in amelioration of murine OVA-induced arthritis, in vitro -primed Th17 cells cannot exacerbate arthritic symptoms after adoptive transfer. Furthermore, Th17 cells cannot induce an inflammatory delayed type hypersensitivity reaction because they fail to migrate into inflamed sites, possibly due to the lack of CXCR3 expression. Also, re-isolated Th17 cells acquired IFN-, expression, indicating instability of the Th17 phenotype. Taken together, the data show that IL-6, TGF-, and IL-23 might not provide sufficient signals to induce "fully qualified" Th17 cells. [source]


    TRIZAL study: switching from successful HAART to TrizivirTM (abacavir-lamivudine-zidovudine combination tablet): 48 weeks efficacy, safety and adherence results

    HIV MEDICINE, Issue 2 2003
    C Katlama
    Objective To assess the antiviral efficacy, safety, and adherence in subjects who switched to TrizivirÔ following long-term HIV-1 RNA suppression. Study design A randomized, open-label, multicentre, 48-week comparative study in subjects who have received two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors plus a protease inhibitor or an nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor or three nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors for at least 6 months, with a history of undetectable plasma HIV-1 RNA since initiation of therapy and plasma viral load of < 50 HIV-1 RNA copies/mL at screening. Methods Subjects were randomized 1:1 to continue their current treatment or to switch to a simplified treatment with TrizivirÔ administered twice daily. Assessments included plasma HIV-1 RNA, lymphocyte counts, clinical laboratory evaluations, adverse events, and adherence to treatment (obtained via subject self-report). Treatment failure was defined as a plasma viral load of , 400 HIV-1 RNA copies/mL on two consecutive occasions or premature discontinuation of randomized treatment. Results At week 48, the proportion of treatment failures in TrizivirÔ arm (23/106, 22%) was noninferior to that observed in continued arm (23/103, 22%) with a treatment difference stratified by prior ART of 1.2%[-10.1; 12.5]. Incidence of adverse events was similar in both treatment groups. The incidence of possible hypersensitivity reaction in the TrizivirÔ arm was 10%. Significant reductions in cholesterol and triglyceride plasma levels were observed in the TrizivirÔ arm (P < 0.001 and P = 0.006, respectively). Conclusion Switching to TrizivirÔ offers a potent and simplified regimen with equivalent efficacy and significant improvement in lipid abnormalities compared to continued triple therapy. [source]


    Kerion and dermatophytic granuloma.

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 3 2006
    Mycological, histopathological findings in 19 children with inflammatory tinea capitis of the scalp
    Background, Inflammatory tinea capitis or kerion is the result of a hypersensitivity reaction to a dermatophytic infection. Majocchi's granuloma, in contrast, usually begins as a suppurative folliculitis and culminates in a granulomatous reaction. Objectives, To present clinical, mycological and histopathological findings for 19 cases of kerion of the scalp in children. Methods, Nineteen children were investigated (14 boys and five girls) with a mean age of 6.5 years. A potassium hydroxide (KOH) exam and culture in Sabouraud dextrose agar were performed, followed by a biopsy with hematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid-schiff (PAS) and Gomori-Grocott stains. The same investigations were carried out in four control cases of noninflammatory tinea capitis. Results, Clinical history varied from 2 to 16 weeks (mean 6.6 weeks). Diagnosis was confirmed by a positive KOH exam: all cases except one had a positive culture. The following dermatophytes were isolated: Microsporum canis (32%), Trichophyton mentagrophytes (27%), Trichophyton tonsurans (21%), Trichophyton rubrum (10%) and Microsporum gypseum (5%). The histopathological findings were: suppurative folliculitis (SF) 11%, SF plus suppurative dermatitis 37%, suppurative and granulomatous dermatitis (SGD) 26% and SGD plus fibrosing dermatitis 26%. Fungi were observed in 63% of the histopathological sections. Perifollicular infiltrates (PF) around the parasitized hair follicles were identified in the four noninflammatory control cases due to M. canis. Conclusions, Kerion Celsi is an inflammatory or suppurative type of tinea capitis caused by zoophylic dermatophytes (M. canis and T. mentagrophytes), but also by antrophophylic (T. tonsurans and T. rubrum) and geophylic (M. gypseum) dermatophytes. Histopathological findings showed a spectrum from mild suppurative folliculitis to dense granulomatous infiltrates without a clear relationship with the clinical features. [source]


    Effect of undernourishment on Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 ocular infection in the Wistar rat model

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY, Issue 2 2002
    FABIÁN BENENCIA
    Abstract. ,We have studied the susceptibility to Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) infection in malnourished rats. Groups of 10 rats were undernourished during suckling by offspring duplication. The animals were put on commercial diet and at 1, 2, 3, 5 and 8 weeks after weaning, infected in the eye by scarification with HSV-1, strain F. Significant differences in morbidity and mortality were observed between malnourished and control groups infected three weeks after weaning. Viral titres were higher in ocular washings and brains obtained from the malnourished group. This group showed a diminution in antigen dependent lymphocyte proliferation compared to control, and significantly lower delayed type hypersensitivity reaction against inactivated virus (malnourished = 0.16 ± 0.02 mm, control = 0.26 ± 0.03 mm, p < 0.05). Neutralizing antibodies in serum were lower in the malnourished group and lower levels of interferon were obtained in the malnourished group 24 h post-infection. We conclude that malnutrition during suckling induces a delay in the capability to overcome HSV infection. [source]


    An anaphylactic reaction to transdermal delivered fentanyl

    ACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 8 2009
    P. DEWACHTER
    Immediate allergic hypersensitivity reactions with fentanyl are rarely reported. We diagnosed a presumably IgE-mediated allergic hypersensitivity reaction comprising generalized erythema and bronchospasm 4 h after the first-time application of transdermal fentanyl. Prick test remained negative with fentanyl whereas an intradermal test (IDT) with fentanyl was positive (dilution 10,2). Cross-reactivity was found with sufentanil but not with remifentanil. The diagnosis was supported by the clinical history and a positive IDT with fentanyl. This case report confirms the need for a systematic allergological investigation in case of immediate hypersensitivity reactions for all drugs and all modes of administration. [source]


    Syringotropic hypersensitivity reaction associated with infliximab and leflunomide combination therapy in a child with psoriatic arthritis

    JOURNAL OF CUTANEOUS PATHOLOGY, Issue 9 2009
    Tina Vesel
    A 17-year-old boy with refractory psoriatic arthritis and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency who developed a syringotropic hypersensitivity reaction after 9 months of therapy with infliximab and leflunomide is described. Clinically, our patient showed a vasculitic-like skin rash involving both palms and soles, and histopathological examination revealed a syringotropic lymphocytic infiltrate directed toward the intra-epidermal portion of the eccrine ducts. These features have not been previously associated with infliximab or leflunomide therapy and represent a unique cutaneous hypersensitivity reaction that does not fit any known description of an immune-mediated hypersensitivity reaction. [source]


    Gender and long-term metabolic toxicities from antiretroviral therapy in HIV-1 infected persons,

    JOURNAL OF MEDICAL VIROLOGY, Issue 9 2006
    Mohamed-Rachid Boulassel
    Abstract Gender differences in a large population-based cohort of HIV-1 infected patients (245 women and 723 men) were examined with respect to the incidence of metabolic and morphologic alterations after initiation of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Patients initiated HAART between January 1996 and December 2003. The outcome measures were the incidence of hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, symptomatic lactic acidosis, treatment-limiting lipodystrophy, and hypersensitivity reaction. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the crude and adjusted hazard ratios of reaching the endpoints for exposures and covariates. Women were younger than men (35,±,9.8 vs. 40,±,8.2 years, P,<,0.001) and more frequently from Haiti or Africa (59%), whereas 76% of men were Canadian-born. Type of initial HAART regimen did not differ between women and men. There were no gender differences in the overall incidence of hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, or treatment-limiting lipodystrophy, even after adjusting for age, CD4 cell count, viral load, time since HIV diagnosis, history of AIDS-defining illness and year of HAART initiation. In contrast, women had significantly higher risk of developing lactic acidosis than men (P,=,0.0009). Hypersensitivity reactions were also more frequent in women than men (adjusted hazard ratio,=,4.4 (95% CI: 2.1,9.3)). Collectively, these data suggest that metabolic toxicities after HAART do not differ by gender but that lactic acidosis and hypersensitivity reactions are more frequent in women than men. J. Med. Virol. 78:1158,1163, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]


    Antibiotic prophylaxis in cesarean section causing anaphylaxis and intrauterine fetal death

    JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY RESEARCH (ELECTRONIC), Issue 2 2008
    Amit Sengupta
    Abstract Intrauterine fetal death and maternal shock occurred as a result of a type-1 hypersensitivity reaction following antibiotic prophylaxis in a cesarean section. Amniotic fluid embolism may mimic the condition. The ability to diagnose and treat such an event as early as possible is necessary in all maternity centers. The selection of antibiotic regimen and the type of anesthesia should be individualized depending upon the existing facilities and the patient's profile, especially in a resource-scarce developing country. [source]


    A well-circumscribed henna tattoo hypersensitivity reaction

    JOURNAL OF PAEDIATRICS AND CHILD HEALTH, Issue 7-8 2010
    John A Craven
    No abstract is available for this article. [source]


    Drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms secondary to sulfasalazine

    JOURNAL OF PAEDIATRICS AND CHILD HEALTH, Issue 4 2010
    Jeremy Rosenbaum
    Abstract A severe cutaneous eruption in an unwell patient can be a major cause of physician anxiety. With numerous differential diagnoses, an early accurate diagnosis can be challenging. infectious causes are the most important to exclude in a timely manner and drug rash and eosinophilia with systemic symptoms (DRESS) is another differential diagnosis that should be considered in children. This hypersensitivity reaction is associated with multisystem involvement. Children with underlying chronic diseases may have impairment of normal metabolic pathways and are also often on multiple medications. Therefore, drugs should always be considered in the aetiopathology of any new symptoms and signs. This case report informs readers of the association of sulfasalazine and DRESS in an 11-year-old with inflammatory bowel disease and discusses its pathogenesis and treatment. Increased awareness of this disorder will hopefully lead to increased reporting and consequently illuminate the syndrome more clearly and help guide its prevention and treatment. [source]


    Anaesthetists should be aware of delayed hypersensitivity to phenylephrine

    ACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 5 2007
    P. Dewachter
    Delayed reactions to phenylephrine, used as a mydriatic agent during ophthalmological surgical procedures, are well known. We diagnosed a delayed hypersensitivity reaction to phenylephrine included in an ophthalmic insert in a woman presenting, 24 h after surgery, with an acute blepharoconjunctivitis associated with eyelid eczema of the operated eye. The diagnosis was supported by the recognition of clinical symptoms associated with a positive patch test to phenylephrine. Patients who present with previous contact eczema to phenylephrine may develop a generalized eczema if phenylephrine is injected intravenously. Intravenous phenylephrine is increasingly being used in the operating room to treat hypotension. This case report confirms the need for systematic allergological investigation of all drugs and substances administered during the peri-operative period in order to avoid a delayed hypersensitivity reaction occurring after the peri-operative period. Anaesthetists should be aware of the possibility of delayed hypersensitivity reactions involving phenylephrine. [source]


    Infliximab as rescue medication for patients with severe ulcerative/indeterminate colitis refractory to tacrolimus

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 9 2010
    K. R. HERRLINGER
    Aliment Pharmacol Ther,31, 1036,1041 Summary Background, The calcineurin inhibitor tacrolimus and the anti-TNF-antibody infliximab are established options in steroid-refractory ulcerative colitis (UC). Aim, To evaluate the efficacy of infliximab-salvage therapy in patients with refractory UC failing to respond to tacrolimus. Methods, Twenty-four patients were enrolled in this evaluation. Reasons for tacrolimus therapy were steroid-refractory disease in 19 patients and steroid-dependency in five patients. All patients receiving infliximab had tacrolimus-refractory active disease (Lichtiger score >10) and were treated with 5 mg/kg at weeks 0, 2 and 6 and every 8 weeks thereafter, if tolerated. Results, Six of 24 patients (25%) achieved remission following infliximab infusion and four of 24 (17%) had an initial response only, but underwent proctocolectomy later because of loss of response (3) or development of a delayed hypersensitivity reaction (1). Fourteen patients (58%) completely failed to respond with 10 undergoing colectomy. Eight patients experienced side effects under infliximab, including two infectious complications (herpes zoster and herpes pneumonia). Conclusions, Infliximab offers a therapeutic option as rescue therapy in about a quarter of patients with active UC after failing to respond to tacrolimus. This benefit has to be weighed against the risks of infectious complications. [source]


    Cardiovascular pharmacogenetics in the SNP era

    JOURNAL OF THROMBOSIS AND HAEMOSTASIS, Issue 7 2003
    V. Mooser
    Summary., In the past pharmacological agents have contributed to a significant reduction in age-adjusted incidence of cardiovascular events. However, not all patients treated with these agents respond favorably, and some individuals may develop side-effects. With aging of the population and the growing prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors worldwide, it is expected that the demand for cardiovascular drugs will increase in the future. Accordingly, there is a growing need to identify the ,good' responders as well as the persons at risk for developing adverse events. Evidence is accumulating to indicate that responses to drugs are at least partly under genetic control. As such, pharmacogenetics , the study of variability in drug responses attributed to hereditary factors in different populations , may significantly assist in providing answers toward meeting this challenge. Pharmacogenetics mostly relies on associations between a specific genetic marker like single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), either alone or arranged in a specific linear order on a certain chromosomal region (haplotypes), and a particular response to drugs. Numerous associations have been reported between selected genotypes and specific responses to cardiovascular drugs. Recently, for instance, associations have been reported between specific alleles of the apoE gene and the lipid-lowering response to statins, or the lipid-elevating effect of isotretinoin. Thus far, these types of studies have been mostly limited to a priori selected candidate genes due to restricted genotyping and analytical capacities. Thanks to the large number of SNPs now available in the public domain through the SNP Consortium and the newly developed technologies (high throughput genotyping, bioinformatics software), it is now possible to interrogate more than 200 000 SNPs distributed over the entire human genome. One pharmacogenetic study using this approach has been launched by GlaxoSmithKline to identify the approximately 4% of patients who are predisposed to developing a hypersensitivity reaction to abacavir, an anti-HIV agent. Data collected thus far on the HLA locus on chromosome 6 indicate that this approach is feasible. Extended linkage disequilibrium can be detected readily, even across several haplotype blocks, thus potentially reducing the number of SNPs for future whole-genome scans. Finally, a modest number of cases and controls appears to be sufficient to detect genetic associations. There is little doubt that this type of approach will have an impact on the way cardiovascular drugs will be developed and prescribed in the future. [source]


    Anaphylactic reaction to patent blue V after sentinel lymph node biopsy

    ACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 2 2006
    P. Dewachter
    Background:, We report a documented grade III IgE-mediated hypersensitivity reaction associated with the use of 2.5% patent blue V dye for sentinel lymph node biopsy during breast cancer surgery. Methods:, Immediately after the reaction, when hemodynamic stability was obtained, plasma histamine was measured whereas serum tryptase was not. Six weeks later, with the patient's consent, cutaneous tests to patent blue V dye, methylene blue dye, latex and all drugs used during surgery were performed according to standardized procedures. Results and conclusion:, Clinical symptoms, biological assessment results and cutaneous tests positivity confirmed the onset of an anaphylactic reaction due to patent blue V. Of interest, the positivity of the cutaneous tests observed with patent blue V was not found with methylene blue which might be proposed for further investigations in our patient. This case report confirms the need for systematic allergological investigation of all drugs and substances administered during the peri-operative period in case of an immediate hypersensitivity reaction occurring during anesthesia. [source]


    Glucocorticoids for the treatment of anaphylaxis: Cochrane systematic review

    ALLERGY, Issue 10 2010
    K. J. L. Choo
    To cite this article: Choo KJL, Simons E, Sheikh A. Glucocorticoids for the treatment of anaphylaxis: Cochrane systematic review. Allergy 2010; 65: 1205,1211. Abstract Background:, Anaphylaxis is a serious hypersensitivity reaction that is rapid in onset and may result in death. A number of guidelines recommend glucocorticoids for the treatment of people experiencing anaphylaxis. Objectives:, We sought to assess the benefits and harms of glucocorticoid treatment during episodes of anaphylaxis. Methods:, We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library 2009, Issue 3), MEDLINE (Ovid) (1966 to September 2009), EMBASE (Ovid) (1988 to September 2009), CINAHL (EBSCOhost) (to September 2009) and The Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED) (1945 to September 2009). We also searched the UK National Research Register and websites listing ongoing trials and contacted international experts in anaphylaxis in an attempt to locate unpublished material. We sought to include randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials comparing glucocorticoids with any control (either placebo, adrenaline (epinephrine), an antihistamine, or any combination of these). Two authors independently assessed articles for inclusion. Results:, None of the 2496 reports identified satisfied the inclusion criteria. Conclusions:, We conclude that there is no evidence from high-quality studies for the use of steroids in the emergency management of anaphylaxis. Therefore, we can neither support nor refute the use of these drugs for this purpose. [source]


    Anti-infliximab IgE and non-IgE antibodies and induction of infusion-related severe anaphylactic reactions

    ALLERGY, Issue 5 2010
    A. Vultaggio
    To cite this article: Vultaggio A, Matucci A, Nencini F, Pratesi S, Parronchi P, Rossi O, Romagnani S, Maggi E. Anti-infliximab IgE and non-IgE antibodies and induction of infusion-related severe anaphylactic reactions. Allergy 2010; 65: 657,661. Abstract Background:, Infliximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody against TNF-, useful in the treatment of many chronic inflammatory diseases. Severe anaphylaxis has been reported during therapy, although the exact mechanism has not been fully defined. The reactions have been related to the infliximab immunogenicity and development of specific antibodies. Aims of the study:, Evaluation of the development of IgE and non-IgE antibodies to infliximab and their relationship with infusion reaction. Methods:, Seventy-one patients (11 reactives, 11 therapeutically nonresponders, and 49 unreactive therapeutically responders) and 20 non,infliximab-exposed control subjects (ten rheumatoid arthritis, five spondyloarthropathies, five vasculitis) were evaluated for the presence of IgE (ImmunoCAP assay), IgM, and non,isotype-specific (ELISA assays) anti-infliximab antibodies. Sera were obtained at baseline and during the course of treatment, before each infliximab infusion. Results:, Eleven out of 71 patients had a hypersensitivity reaction to infliximab. Non,isotype-specific anti-infliximab antibodies were detected in eight reactive and two nonresponder patients. Three patients with severe reactions displayed anti-infliximab IgE antibodies and positive skin testing. Detectable levels of anti-infliximab IgM antibodies were shown in three additional IgE- and skin testing-negative patients. IgE and IgM antibodies to infliximab were not detectable in the two nonresponder patients. Antibodies developed before the 2nd and the 3rd infusion, and their appearance was strictly related to the timing of the reaction. Conclusions:, This report indicates that in some patients with infliximab-related severe reactions, IgE or IgM antibodies against infliximab were detectable. The majority of reactions could be predicted by the appearance of anti-infliximab antibodies. [source]


    Number IV Erythema multiforme

    ORAL DISEASES, Issue 5 2005
    P Farthing
    Erythema multiforme (EM) is an acute mucocutaneous hypersensitivity reaction characterised by a skin eruption, with or without oral or other mucous membrane lesions. Occasionally EM may involve the mouth alone. EM has been classified into a number of different variants based on the degree of mucosal involvement and the nature and distribution of the skin lesions. EM minor typically affects no more than one mucosa, is the most common form and may be associated with symmetrical target lesions on the extremities. EM major is more severe, typically involving two or more mucous membranes with more variable skin involvement , which is used to distinguish it from Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), where there is extensive skin involvement and significant morbidity and a mortality rate of 5-15%. Both EM major and SJS can involve internal organs and typically are associated with systemic symptoms. Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) may be a severe manifestation of EM, but some experts regard it as a discrete disease. EM can be triggered by a number of factors, but the best documented is preceding infection with herpes simplex virus (HSV), the lesions resulting from a cell mediated immune reaction triggered by HSV,DNA. SJS and TEN are usually initiated by drugs, and the tissue damage is mediated by soluble factors including Fas and FasL. [source]


    Acute hypersensitivity reaction on re-exposure to basiliximab in an infant undergoing heart transplantation

    PEDIATRIC ANESTHESIA, Issue 8 2008
    Karen Maria Wouters
    No abstract is available for this article. [source]


    Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis: New concepts of pathogenesis and treatment

    RESPIROLOGY, Issue 1 2001
    Peter A. B. Wark
    Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is a condition that results from a hypersensitivity reaction to the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. The purpose of the present review is to examine the pathogenesis of this condition and the evidence for treatments available. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis is characterized by an intense airway inflammation with eosinophils and the formation of mucus plugs. Clinically, there are periods of exacerbation and remission that may lead to proximal bronchiectasis and fibrotic lung disease. New evidence confirms the role of intense airway inflammation with eosinophils, but also suggests a role for interleukin (IL)-8/neutrophil-mediated inflammation in this process, and the potential deficiency of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as reduced IL-10. Treatment for ABPA has so far focused on corticosteroids to suppress eosinophilic airway inflammation. An expanding knowledge of the pathology of ABPA also suggests other therapies may be of potential benefit, particularly the use of azole antifungal agents. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis is itself an important complication of asthma and cystic fibrosis. A greater understanding of the condition is required to improve management and well-designed clinical trials need to be carried out to critically assess new and current treatments. In addition, the information gained from the studies of its pathogenesis has the potential to benefit our understanding of the disease processes in asthma and bronchiectasis. [source]