A case of primary and generalized allergy to human insulin with no history of any prior insulin exposure.

Abstract

A generalized hypersensitivity reaction against human insulin was demonstrated in a non-insulin dependent diabetic man treated with only human insulin. The patient had no history of previous insulin exposure or atopy. Because of negative reactions to intracutaneous tests of constituents of the formulation and the presence of insulin-specific IgE antibody, this generalized allergic reaction seems to have been caused by the human insulin itself. Although desensitization was not effective, this allergic reaction was improved both by the treatment with oral antihistamines and desensitization. Cases of generalized and primary allergy against human insulin have been rarely reported making this a very rare case.

• Authors: H Takuma, T Kawagishi, I Kyogoku, Y Okuno, Y Nishizawa, H Morii
• Journal: Diabetes research and clinical practice (Diabetes Res Clin Pract) Vol. 30 Issue 1 Pg. 69-73 (Oct 1995) ISSN: 0168-8227 [Print] Ireland
• PMID: 8745208 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Comparative Study, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Histamine H1 Antagonists
• Insulin
• Recombinant Proteins
• Immunoglobulin E

Topics

• Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 (drug therapy)
• Drug Hypersensitivity
• Histamine H1 Antagonists (therapeutic use)
• Humans
• Immunoglobulin E (blood)
• Insulin (adverse effects, immunology)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Recombinant Proteins (adverse effects)
• Skin Tests