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Trans-vivo Delayed Type Hypersensitivity Assay for Antigen Specific Regulation
Published on: May 2, 2013
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Effective Desensitization to Tocilizumab in Delayed Hypersensitivity Reaction
Gabriele Cortellini1, Fabio Mascella1, Margherita Simoncelli1
1Internal Medicine, Allergy Unit, Rimini Hospital, Azienda sanitaria Romagna, Rimini, Italy.
Pharmacology
|June 29, 2018
Summary
Tocilizumab desensitization successfully treated a rheumatoid arthritis patient experiencing a delayed allergic reaction. This approach induced tolerance, allowing for effective disease management and improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- Tocilizumab is an interleukin-6 receptor inhibitor used to treat RA.
- Delayed hypersensitivity reactions to tocilizumab can complicate treatment.
Observation:
- A 47-year-old woman with RA developed a delayed erythematous urticarial reaction to tocilizumab.
- Skin testing revealed a positive reaction to tocilizumab at 6 hours.
- The reaction pattern suggested a non-immediate hypersensitivity.
Findings:
- A modified desensitization protocol was implemented over 5 weeks, reaching a cumulative dose of 516 mg.
- Repeat skin testing after 6 months was negative, indicating successful tolerance induction.
- The patient achieved good control of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Implications:
- Tocilizumab desensitization is a viable strategy for RA patients with non-immediate hypersensitivity reactions.
- This approach can restore the efficacy of tocilizumab therapy.
- Successful desensitization improves long-term disease management and patient quality of life.
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