[Non-fatal systemic reactions caused by immunotherapy and skin tests].
OBJECTIVE
The frequency and severity of systemic reaction (SR) from skin test (ST) and specific immunotherapy (SIT) in Mexico, have not been published before. In order to know that frequency and severity, a prospective study was performed in the Allergy Clinic at General Hospital of Matamoros from August, 1991 to July, 1996. SR from ST and SIT were monitored. Symptoms were recorded with respect to the time of onset, involvement of respiratory tract or skin and presence of hypotension.


RESULTS
65,397 injections were given to 1,149 patients; there were 25 SR in 20 patients (1:2,615 injections or 1:57 patients). Time of onset was between 10 and 30 minutes. SR were present more frequently during maintenance. There was a 3:1 rate in female patients and a predominance in the 15 to 24 age group.


CONCLUSIONS
In Matamoros, Tamps., Mexico, frequency and severity of SR from ST and SIT is not different from published data. Small children are not in higher risk. Immunotherapy is a safe therapeutic procedure on expert hands.
Rodríguez Pérez
Noel
N
Clínica de Asma y Alergia, Hospital General de Matamoros, Matamoros, Tamps.
Ambriz Moreno
María de Jesús
Mde J
Pizarro Esquivel
Urbano
U
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000485:Allergens / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology*; D003888:Desensitization, Immunologic / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007428:Intradermal Tests / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D008800:Mexico / Q000453:epidemiology; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012882:Skin Tests / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013997:Time Factors
D000485:Allergens