Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 8, 2026

Improving IV Insulin Administration in a Community Hospital
Published on: June 11, 2012
[Hypersensitivity reactions to insulin]
Martín Becerril-Ángeles1, Cristina Moctezuma-Trejo, Francisco Espinosa-Larrañaga
1Servicio de Alergia e InmunologÌa ClÌnica, Hospital de Especialidades Dr Antonio Fraga Mouret, Unidad MÈdica de Alta Especialidad, Centro MÈdico Nacional La Raza, IMSS, MÈxico, D.F. mbecer5@gmail.com.
Background:
Hypersensitivity reactions to insulin are infrequent, yet of clinical importance. The mechanisms of hypersensitivity involved can be of three types: I, III and IV.
Objective:
To describe the pathophysiology of hypersensitivity to insulin, its clinical features and diagnostic and therapeutic approach, that help identify the cases of allergy to insulin and begin a treatment, or if necessary, to refer patients to a specialists or appropriate medical attention.
Methods:
An electronic search of papers related to insulin hypersensitivity was performed in PubMed and the articles selected were those considered the most relevant for this review.
Results:
Thirty eight papers about pathophysiology, mechanisms of injury and the different types of insulin involved in hypersensitivity reactions were included. Likewise, information for the diagnosis of insulin hypersensitivity and some options of treatment for first contact physicians or the referral of patients to specialists in endocrinology and allergy were included.
Conclusions:
Insulin hypersensitivity has a low prevalence and diverse clinical manifestations. The different types of insulin suitable allow the majority of cases of hypersensitivity to continue the treatment in a efficient and flexible manner.
Related Concept Videos
Hypersensitivities
Types of Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity reactions are categorized into four types: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4. Each type has a distinct mechanism...
Drug Toxicity: Allergic Reactions
Hypoglycemia
Hypersensitivity Reactions: Cytolytic Reactions
Hypersensitivity Reactions: Immune-Complex Reactions
Insulin: Dosing Regimen and Adverse Effects
The basal dose constitutes about 40%-50% of the total daily dose, with the rest as premeal insulin. The mealtime insulin dose should mirror...
