Systemic Allergic Reactions to Corticosteroids

Abstract

Allergic anaphylactic (type I) reactions to corticosteroid medications are uncommon; however, a number of well-documented cases have been reported. We present a review of the literature, and report on two patients who suffered anaphylaxis after injections of corticosteroids. The first patient, a registered nurse, was finally found to be sensitive to all corticosteroid preparations containing carboxymethylcellulose, as well as the pure carboxymethyl-cellulose. The second patient had positive skin tests to hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone sodium succinate, methylprednisolone sodium succinate, and suxamethonium. Both patients were tested on two occasions; four normal subjects were tested in parallel, and did not elicit any positive skin reaction. In patients with systemic severe reactions to injectable corticosteroids, we recommend careful and comprehensive skin testing with most available corticosteroids, as well as the components of the injectables.