[Anaphylaxis caused by chlorhexidine following cystoscopy or urethral catheterization]

Since 1983 the Netherlands Centre for Monitoring of Adverse Reactions to Drugs received 6 reports of anaphylaxis due to a chlorhexidine-containing lubricant used during cystoscopy or urinary catheterization. One case was described earlier. An accidental rechallenge in two patients was positive. In 5 cases, the causal relationship with chlorhexidine was confirmed by a positive reaction to intracutaneous testing. Although this adverse reaction is probably rare, medical practitioners should be aware of the possibility that a severe anaphylactic reaction may occur during use of these products.