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Anaphylaxis to calcitonin
S L Porcel1, J A Cumplido, B de la Hoz
1Department of Allergy, Ramón y Cajal Hospital, Madrid, Spain.
Allergologia Et Immunopathologia
|October 7, 2000
Summary
Salmon calcitonin can cause allergic reactions. This case study highlights anaphylaxis, suggesting an IgE-mediated hypersensitivity to salmon calcitonin, even with prior tolerance.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Immunology
- Allergology
Background:
- Calcitonin, a hormone from thyroid C cells, is used for osteomuscular diseases.
- Allergic reactions to salmon calcitonin are rarely documented.
- Previous episodes of rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and perspiration were noted after salmon calcitonin administration.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old woman experienced immediate allergic symptoms post-salmon calcitonin administration.
- Skin prick tests with salmon calcitonin were positive, while nasal challenges were negative.
- Intramuscular challenge testing induced an immediate anaphylactic reaction.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited a positive skin prick test to salmon calcitonin.
- Intramuscular administration of salmon calcitonin triggered an anaphylactic reaction.
- Leukocyte histamine release and serum tryptase levels did not show significant changes.
Implications:
- This case suggests IgE-mediated hypersensitivity as a mechanism for salmon calcitonin-induced anaphylaxis.
- Clinicians should consider calcitonin allergy in patients with unexplained allergic reactions.
- Further research is needed to understand the prevalence and mechanisms of calcitonin allergy.