Related Experiment Videos
[Anaphylactic shock with ventricular fibrillation induced by chlorhexidine]
I Harukuni1, Y Ishizawa, T Nishikawa
1Department of Anesthesiology, Tsukuba University Hospital.
Masui. the Japanese Journal of Anesthesiology
|March 1, 1992
Summary
A patient experienced severe allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock and ventricular fibrillation, after accidental intravenous administration of the antiseptic chlorhexidine. This case highlights potential risks associated with chlorhexidine use.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Allergy and Immunology
Background:
- Chlorhexidine is a widely used topical antiseptic in healthcare settings.
- Severe adverse reactions, though rare, have been reported with chlorhexidine use.
Observation:
- A 66-year-old male developed anaphylactic shock and ventricular fibrillation after presumed intravenous aspiration of chlorhexidine during internal jugular vein cannulation.
- The patient was successfully resuscitated without lasting effects.
Findings:
- Radioallergosorbent technique detected IgE antibodies against chlorhexidine in the patient's serum.
- Lymphocyte transformation tests did not identify the specific allergen.
Implications:
- This case suggests chlorhexidine may pose significant safety risks, even when used topically.
- Further investigation into chlorhexidine's safety profile and potential for severe allergic reactions is warranted.