Gentamicin-induced anaphylaxis.
BACKGROUND
Gentamicin is a common cause of allergic contact dermatitis but immediate (type 1) hypersensitivity is unusual.


OBJECTIVE
We report a case of anaphylaxis to gentamicin in a 69-year-old man who developed urticaria, hypotension and loss of consciousness within minutes of receiving intravenous gentamicin.


RESULTS
The patient was successfully resuscitated and made a full recovery. Prick testing and patch testing to gentamicin was positive.


CONCLUSIONS
Although allergic reactions to gentamicin are well recognised, there are few reported cases of anaphylaxis to gentamicin.
Connolly
M
M
Dermatology Department, Adelaide & Meath Hospital Dublin Incorporating The National Children's Hospital, Tallaght, Dublin 24, Ireland. maureen.connolly@amnch.ie
McAdoo
J
J
Bourke
J F
JF
D000368:Aged; D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis; D004342:Drug Hypersensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005839:Gentamicins / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011470:Prostatic Hyperplasia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D012882:Skin Tests; D020728:Transurethral Resection of Prostate / Q000379:methods
D005839:Gentamicins