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Perioperative Anaphylaxis Caused by Anesthetic Agents:A Review of Clinical Cases and Mechanisms Shunichi TAKAGI 1 1Department of Anesthesiology, Division of Anesthesiology, Nihon University School of Medicine Keyword: Perioperative anaphylaxis , Neuromuscular blocking agents , Sugammadex , Intravenous anesthetics , Volatile anesthetics pp.572-579
Published Date 2025/9/10
DOI https://doi.org/10.18916/masui.2025090007
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 Perioperative anaphylaxis is a rare but potentially fatal event that requires immediate recognition and intervention. This review summarizes the incidence, mechanisms, and diagnostic considerations of anaphylaxis related to commonly used anesthetic agents, presented in the order of propofol, opioids, neuromuscular blocking agents(NMBAs), sugammadex, and volatile anesthetics.

 Propofol is the most frequently implicated intravenous anesthetic in perioperative allergic reactions, accounting for approximately 1-2% of cases. Immunoglobulin E(IgE)-mediated hypersensitivity has been associated with the isopropyl groups, phenol ring, and additives such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid(EDTA). Despite earlier concerns, large-scale studies have demonstrated no significant increase in risk in patients with egg or soy allergies. Basophil activation tests(BATs)and specific IgE assays can be used to identify sensitization to propofol’s core structures.

 Opioids are infrequent causes of perioperative anaphylaxis, comprising only 1.3% of cases. Most reactions are non-IgE-mediated and result from direct mast cell activation via MRGPRX2, particularly with morphine and codeine. Fentanyl and remifentanil have a lower tendency for histamine release. Although rare, IgE-mediated reactions to fentanyl and tramadol have been confirmed by skin testing in some cases.

 NMBAs are the leading cause of anaphylaxis in many countries, accounting for over 60% of cases in France and 16.7% of cases in Japan. Rocuronium and succinylcholine are most commonly implicated. A shared structural feature―quaternary ammonium―is a known IgE epitope that underlies high cross-reactivity among NMBAs. Environmental exposure to similar molecules in cosmetics or cough suppressants(e.g., pholcodine)may promote sensitization. Diagnostic evaluation includes skin testing and BAT.

 Sugammadex, a modified γ-cyclodextrin used to reverse aminosteroid NMBAs, has been associated with rare anaphylactic reactions, especially in Asian populations. Immediate reactions confirmed by BAT or skin tests suggest an IgE-dependent mechanism. Additionally, sugammadex has been reported to mitigate rocuronium-induced anaphylaxis in some cases by encapsulating the offending agent, although its therapeutic role remains adjunctive rather than primary.

 Volatile anesthetics such as sevoflurane and isoflurane are exceedingly rare causes of anaphylaxis. Sevoflurane-induced reactions have been confirmed via skin tests and BAT, suggesting IgE-mediated hypersensitivity. The underlying mechanisms may involve haptenization or metabolism-related antigen formation, but data remain limited.

 In conclusion, understanding the allergenic potential and immunologic pathways of anesthetic agents is essential for safe perioperative management. Individualized preoperative evaluation is crucial in patients with a history of drug hypersensitivity.


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電子版ISSN 印刷版ISSN 0021-4892 克誠堂出版

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