Role of dissociation in "false drug allergy".

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to analyze the influence of dissociation on the "false allergy" phenomenon.

METHOD: Fifty-five individuals (11 males and 44 females) who consecutively presented for the study of their suspected drug allergy were assessed.

RESULTS

After the challenge test, false allergy was found in 39.3% and placebo positive response in 12.5% of the patients. Seven patients (12.5%) scored above the cut-off point of 20 on the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES), and 5 out of this group (71.4%) fit in the "false allergy" group. Pathological scores on the DES were associated with the diagnosis of "false allergy" (OR = 9.583, 95% CI = 1.002, 91.621). The effect of age, gender, and other psychopathological variables was controlled.

CONCLUSIONS

High levels of dissociation might predispose to false drug allergy, which could complicate pharmacological treatment and therefore increase the patient's complaints and demands for medical attention.