Systemic allergic reaction and diffuse bone pain after exposure to a preparation of betamethasone

Allergic reactions to corticosteroids are unexpected as they seem to contradict their pharmacodynamic action. Nevertheless, they are not infrequent, with an estimated incidence of up to 4% for cutaneous reactions. Systemic reactions are rarely reported, but their incidence might be underestimated. W...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:European journal of internal medicine 2005-12, Vol.16 (8), p.612-614
Main Authors: Ehret, G.B., Deluze, C., Dayer, P., Desmeules, J.A.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Allergy
Betamethasone
Pain
Systemic
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Summary:Allergic reactions to corticosteroids are unexpected as they seem to contradict their pharmacodynamic action. Nevertheless, they are not infrequent, with an estimated incidence of up to 4% for cutaneous reactions. Systemic reactions are rarely reported, but their incidence might be underestimated. We report here an unusual allergic reaction to betamethasone presenting with diffuse bone pain, erythema, and bronchoconstriction, which was confirmed by a positive rechallenge in a double-blind procedure. This is the first case report of a systemic reaction to betamethasone confirmed by a positive rechallenge. An impurity in betamethasone diproprionate cannot be excluded. As this substance is frequently used in rheumatologic soft-tissue injections, it is important to recognize this potentially life-threatening side effect.
ISSN:0953-6205
1879-0828
DOI:10.1016/j.ejim.2005.04.004