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Published on: April 21, 2018
Adverse events associated with rush hymenoptera venom immunotherapy
G P Westall1, F C Thien, D Czarny
1Department of Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC.
The Medical Journal of Australia
|March 31, 2001
Summary
Rush immunotherapy for Hymenoptera venom allergy caused frequent adverse systemic events during induction. This allergy treatment requires experienced staff and resuscitation facilities due to high hypersensitivity reaction rates.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Clinical Medicine
- Toxicology
Background:
- Hymenoptera insect stings can cause severe anaphylaxis.
- Rush immunotherapy offers rapid desensitization but may carry risks.
- Understanding adverse events is crucial for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the incidence and types of adverse events during rush Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy.
- To evaluate the safety profile of rapid venom immunotherapy induction.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective descriptive case study.
- Inclusion of patients with anaphylaxis to Hymenoptera stings receiving inpatient rush immunotherapy.
- Monitoring for hypersensitivity reactions and other adverse events.
Main Results:
- 73 courses of rush immunotherapy were administered to 68 patients.
- Hypersensitivity reactions occurred in 38% of patients (3.8% of injections).
- Common reactions included angioedema, rash, hypotension, and asthma.
Conclusions:
- Rush immunotherapy induction is associated with a high incidence of adverse systemic events.
- This allergy treatment necessitates administration by experienced personnel in equipped facilities.
- Careful patient selection and monitoring are essential.
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