Successful rechallenge with etoposide phosphate after an acute hypersensitivity reaction to etoposide

Abstract

Hypersensitivity reactions to etoposide are reported infrequently and consist of hypotension, hypertension, flushing, diaphoresis, dyspnea, bronchospasm, and loss of consciousness. A 23-year-old woman experienced acute bronchospasm, tachycardia, hypoxia, and moderate hypertension minutes after an infusion of etoposide was begun. Symptoms resolved within an hour after administration of intravenous fluids, methylprednisolone, diphenhydramine, and oxygen. Subsequently, the patient was given etoposide phosphate without incident. To our knowledge, this is the first report of successful rechallenge with etoposide phosphate after an acute hypersensitivity reaction to etoposide.