Three cases of ortho-phthalaldehyde-induced anaphylaxis after laryngoscopy: detection of specific IgE in serum.

BACKGROUND

Ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA) has recently been used as a disinfectant for various medical apparatuses. OPA is not generally recognized as a potential allergen.

CASE SUMMARY: Subsequent to our recent report describing a patient presenting with OPA-induced anaphylaxis following laryngoscopy, we experienced two more such cases. In all three cases, the basophil histamine release test was useful for identifying the allergen as OPA. OPA-specific IgE was successfully detected in the serum of the patients by ELISA.

DISCUSSION: Physicians and co-medical workers need to be aware of potential allergens to which patients may be exposed during routine medical procedures.