Anaphylaxis to Patent Blue V: a case series

Area of Science:

• Medical Diagnostics
• Allergy Research
• Oncology Procedures

Background:

• Blue dyes like Patent Blue V (PBV) are standard in sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) for breast cancer staging.
• Anaphylaxis is a known, potentially life-threatening risk associated with PBV dye exposure.
• The frequency of PBV allergy is estimated at 0.9%.

Observation:

• This study reports on four patients experiencing suspected anaphylaxis after SLNB.
• Clinical features, serum mast-cell tryptase (MCT), and skin prick test (SPT) results were analyzed.
• These tests are used to investigate Type-1 mediated hypersensitivity reactions.

Findings:

• The study details the clinical presentations and diagnostic test results for patients with suspected PBV-induced anaphylaxis.
• Analysis of MCT and SPT results in the context of clinical symptoms following PBV exposure.
• The findings underscore the importance of recognizing allergy following initial PBV exposure.

Implications:

• Early recognition of PBV allergy is vital, particularly for patients undergoing repeat SLNB procedures.
• Referral to specialist drug allergy services is recommended for comprehensive evaluation of suspected PBV allergy.
• Improved diagnostic strategies and patient management are needed to mitigate risks associated with PBV in medical settings.