[A case of shock due to hypersensitivity to dextran]

An examination is made of the relevant literature in the light of a case of shock due to serious hypersensitivity to high molecular weight (70,000) dextran. It is shown that similar cases occur with a certain frequency when dextran is used in situations other than surgery and frank shock. The reaction explodes in response to the first drops of the first administration. The ready availability of resuscitation equipment is a fundamental requisite for the satisfactory outcome of treatment.