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Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Basophil Activation Test for Investigation of IgE-Mediated Mechanisms in Drug Hypersensitivity
Published on: September 16, 2011
Type I immediate hypersensitivity reaction to cyanocobalamin but not hydroxycobalamin
F J Moloney1, R Hughes, D O'Shea
1Department of Dermatology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.
Abstract:
We report a case of a 42-year-old woman with a background of autoimmune polyglandular syndrome, who developed a type I immediate hypersensitivity reaction to intramuscular cyanocobalamin. Intradermal testing showed a positive reaction to cyanocobalamin. The patient was subsequently treated with intramuscular hydroxycobalamin after negative intradermal testing to this alternative B(12) compound. A review of previously described cases of hypersensitivity to either compound provides a rationale for the management of this rare but serious side-effect.
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