Perioperative anaphylaxis associated with peripheral inserted central catheter: A retrospective observational study

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Allergy and Immunology
• Oncology

Background:

• Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICCs) are vital for long-term intravenous therapy.
• A rising incidence of anaphylaxis linked to PICC insertion requires attention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To increase awareness of anaphylaxis and anaphylactoid reactions during PICC procedures.
• To highlight the necessity of developing future prevention strategies for this emergency.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective observational study was performed.
• Data were collected from cancer patients undergoing PICC catheterization at Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center from January 2021 to August 2023.

Main Results:

• 0.10% of patients (13/12,612) experienced anaphylactic reactions during PICC placement.
• Reactions lasted approximately 8 minutes (range 5-10 min), involving respiratory and cardiovascular symptoms.
• Most patients recovered with oxygen, allowing catheterization completion.

Conclusions:

• The increasing anaphylaxis incidence associated with PICC procedures demands heightened healthcare provider awareness.
• Further investigation is required to pinpoint causative agents and establish effective prevention methods for anaphylactic reactions during PICC insertion.