Chemotherapy-related hypersensitivity reaction in Japanese patients with gynecologic malignancy

Purpose of investigation: Chemotherapy-related hypersensitivity reaction seems to be problematic in the safe management of chemotherapy. In this study we investigated chemotherapy-related hypersensitivity reaction in patients with gynecologic malignancy. Methods: Between January 2009 and December 2010, we examined hypersensitivity reaction (>= grade2) using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) v.4.0. We analyzed the incidence, clinical features, management, and outcome. Results: We administered over 1,057 infusions (24 regimens) to 205 patients. We found a total of four hypersensitivity reactions (a grade 2) cases (carboplatin: 2; nedaplatin: 1; docetaxel: 1). Signs and symptoms were varied. In two cases, the same regimen was rechallenged by using anti-allergic drugs. The docetaxel case was successful. The carboplatin case was not successful. Conclusion: Chemotherapy-related hypersensitivity reaction (>= grade2) does not occur frequently. In the case of platinum, especially, carboplatin, re-administering after hypersensitivity reaction should be done carefully though platinum is a key drug in patients with gynecologic malignancies.

Hypersensitivity reaction; Chemotherapy; Gynecologic malignancy

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