Type I immediate hypersensitivity reaction to cyanocobalamin but not hydroxycobalamin

Clin Exp Dermatol. 2008 Jul;33(4):412-4. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2007.02584.x. Epub 2008 May 21.

Abstract

We report a case of a 42-year-old woman with a background of autoimmune polyglandular syndrome, who developed a type I immediate hypersensitivity reaction to intramuscular cyanocobalamin. Intradermal testing showed a positive reaction to cyanocobalamin. The patient was subsequently treated with intramuscular hydroxycobalamin after negative intradermal testing to this alternative B(12) compound. A review of previously described cases of hypersensitivity to either compound provides a rationale for the management of this rare but serious side-effect.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anemia, Pernicious / drug therapy
  • Drug Hypersensitivity / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hydroxocobalamin / administration & dosage
  • Hydroxocobalamin / adverse effects
  • Hypersensitivity, Immediate / chemically induced*
  • Injections, Intramuscular
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vitamin B 12 / administration & dosage
  • Vitamin B 12 / adverse effects*
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency / drug therapy*
  • Vitamin B Complex / administration & dosage
  • Vitamin B Complex / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Vitamin B Complex
  • Vitamin B 12
  • Hydroxocobalamin