Hypersensitivity to heparin; a case report

Hypersensitivity reactions to heparin are very rare. A generalized hypersensitivity reaction including as fever and skin rash to a porcine- and bovine-derived heparin preparation was observed in a hemodialysis patient due to the nephrotic syndrome. The patient revealed peripheral eosinophilia and normal serum IgE. The results of a drug lymphocyte stimulating test on heparin were positive. Following prednisolone administration and infusion of nafamostat mesilate as anticoagulant therapy during hemodialysis, the high fever and generalized urticaria disappeared. Caution is required when conducting heparin therapy on hemodialysis patients.