Two episodes of anaphylaxis following exposure to hydroxypropyl methylcellulose during cataract surgery

Sofie J Munk, Steffen Heegaard, Holger Mosbech, Lene H Garvey

13 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

We report a case of immediate severe anaphylaxis to hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) on 2 separate occasions during cataract surgery in a 71-year-old patient. Skin prick tests were positive for HPMC, a constituent of Ocucoat and Xylocaine gel, which were administered intraocularly during surgery. Skin prick tests were also positive for methylcellulose. Based on symptoms and clinical signs of anaphylaxis following 2 separate cataract operations together with positive prick tests to HPMC, HPMC is the most plausible cause of the reactions. The patient has since had uneventful surgery for a detached retina avoiding HPMC. This case stresses the importance of considering all medication given to patients as possible causes of an anaphylactic reaction. Financial Disclosure: No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.

Original languageEnglish
JournalJournal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery
Volume39
Issue number6
Pages (from-to)948-51
Number of pages4
ISSN0886-3350
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jun 2013

Keywords

  • Aged
  • Anaphylaxis
  • Cataract Extraction
  • Drug Hypersensitivity
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Methylcellulose
  • Ophthalmic Solutions
  • Recurrence
  • Skin Tests

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