Three Cases of Ortho-phthalaldehyde-induced Anaphylaxis after Laryngoscopy: Detection of Specific IgE in Serum

Abstract

Background: Ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA) has recently been used as a disinfectant for various medical apparatuses. OPA is not generally recognized as a potential allergen.
Case Summary: Subsequent to our recent report describing a patient presenting with OPA-induced anaphylaxis following laryngoscopy, we experienced two more such cases. In all three cases, the basophil histamine release test was useful for identifying the allergen as OPA. OPA-specific IgE was successfully detected in the serum of the patients by ELISA.
Discussion: Physicians and co-medical workers need to be aware of potential allergens to which patients may be exposed during routine medical procedures.