Anaphylactic response to topical fluorescein 2% eye drops: a case report

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Allergy and Immunology

Background:

• Intravenous fluorescein 10% in retinal angiography is known to cause systemic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
• Topical fluorescein 2% eye drops are widely used for clinical diagnosis.
• Systemic anaphylaxis from fluorescein 2% eye drops is rare, with only two previous reports.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of anaphylaxis following the administration of fluorescein 2% eye drops.
• To emphasize the potential for systemic reactions from topical fluorescein 2%.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 51-year-old woman.
• Administration of fluorescein sodium 2% eye drops post-cataract surgery.
• Patient had a history of brittle asthma and anaphylaxis to various allergens.

Main Results:

• The patient developed a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction after receiving fluorescein 2% eye drops.
• The reaction occurred upon second exposure to fluorescein.
• The patient was successfully resuscitated and recovered within two days.

Conclusions:

• Fluorescein 2% eye drops are extensively used across various medical settings.
• This case demonstrates the potential for topical fluorescein 2% to cause severe systemic reactions.
• Healthcare providers should consider this risk in patients with a history of anaphylaxis to other allergens.