The Rare Case of a Probably True IgE-Mediated Allergy to Local Anaesthetics

Abstract EN

The majority of immediate type adverse reactions to local anaesthetics seem to be non-IgE-mediated.

We report a case of a 31-year-old woman, who developed conjunctivitis and conjunctival erythema immediately after intrauterine application of a local anaesthetic.

Skin prick testing and intradermal testing were done with lidocaine, mepivacaine, and procaine.

Intradermal testing showed positive reactions to mepivacaine (1 : 10), undiluted lidocaine, and procaine (1 : 10 and undiluted).

Specific IgE could be detected against mepivacaine, but not against latex.

Serum tryptase was in the normal range.

In order to rule out the exceptional case of a true IgE-mediated reaction, allergy testing with local anaesthetics is still required in the workup of patients.