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Tropicamide and anaphylaxis: A case report.
Nazife Sefi-Yurdakul1, Özlem Sancakli2
1Department of Ophthalmology, Başkent University Zübeyde Hanım Hospital, İzmir, Turkey.
Summary
Tropicamide eye drops, used for infant eye exams, can rarely cause severe anaphylaxis and circulatory failure. Prompt medical intervention is crucial for managing these life-threatening complications.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatrics
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Pediatric eye examinations require cycloplegic agents for accurate refraction.
- Tropicamide is commonly used for its mydriatic and cycloplegic properties.
Observation:
- A 6-month-old infant developed anaphylaxis, respiratory, and circulatory failure shortly after receiving tropicamide (1%) eye drops.
- The infant required immediate emergency medical intervention.
Findings:
- The infant's condition stabilized, and symptoms improved within minutes of treatment initiation.
- This case highlights a rare but severe adverse reaction to tropicamide in an infant.
Implications:
- Ophthalmologists and pediatricians should be aware of the potential for severe systemic reactions to tropicamide.
- Careful patient selection and preparedness for emergency management are essential when administering tropicamide to infants.
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