Insulin allergy

A case report and systematic literature review: insulin-induced type III hypersensitivity reaction

Insulin-induced type III hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) are exceedingly rare and pose complex diagnostic and management challenges. We describe a case of a 43-year-old woman with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM), severe insulin resistance, and subcutaneous nodules at injection sites, accompanied by elevated anti-insulin IgG autoantibodies. Treatment involved therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) as bridge therapy, followed by long-term immunosuppression, which reduced autoantibody levels and improved insulin tolerance. Given the limited treatment guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive literature review, identifying 16 similar cases. Most patients were females with a median age of 36.5 years; 63% had type 1 DM, and 44% had concurrent insulin resistance (56% with elevated autoantibodies). Treatment approaches varied, with glucocorticoids used in 67% of cases. Patients with type 1 DM were less responsive to steroids than those with type 2 DM, and had a more severe course. Of those patients with severe disease necessitating immunosuppression, 66% had poor responses or experienced relapses. The underlying mechanism of insulin-induced type III HSRs remains poorly understood. Immunosuppressive therapy reduces anti-insulin IgG autoantibodies, leading to short-term clinical improvement and improved insulin resistance, emphasizing their crucial role in the condition. However, the long-term efficacy of immunosuppression remains uncertain and necessitates continuous evaluation and further research.

Case Report: Insulin hypersensitivity in youth with type 1 diabetes

Objective

Immediate type I, type III, and delayed type IV hypersensitivity reactions to insulin are rare, but potentially serious complications of exogenous insulin administration required for the treatment of type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Methods

We present four cases of insulin hypersensitivity reactions occurring in youth with T1D and a literature review of this topic.

Results

Insulin hypersensitivity reactions included types I, III, and IV with presentations ranging from localized urticaria, erythematous nodules, and eczematous plaques to anaphylaxis with respiratory distress. Reactions occurred in youth with newly diagnosed T1D and in those with long-standing T1D who were using both injection and insulin pump therapy. Multidisciplinary care involving pediatric endocrinology and allergy/immunology utilizing trials of many adjunct therapies yielded minimal improvement. Despite the use of various treatments, including antihistamines, topical therapies, immunosuppressant medications, desensitization trials, and intravenous immune globulin, cutaneous reactions, elevated hemoglobin A1c levels, and negative effects on quality of life remain persistent challenges. One patient became one of the youngest pancreas transplant recipients in the world at age 12 years due to uncontrollable symptoms and intolerable adverse effects of attempted therapies.

Conclusion

Although rare, insulin hypersensitivity reactions negatively affect glycemic control and quality of life. These cases demonstrate the varying severity and presentation of insulin hypersensitivity reactions along with the limited success of various treatment approaches. Given the life-sustaining nature of insulin therapy, further studies are needed to better understand the underlying pathophysiology of insulin hypersensitivity and to develop targeted treatment approaches.

Evaluation of chronic pruritus and associated skin findings in patients with diabetes mellitus

Background/aim

To explore the dermatological lesions associated with chronic pruritus in patients who were followed up at our clinic for type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM).

Materials and methods

The study population consisted of 249 patients with DM, who presented to the endocrinology clinic at Ankara University Faculty of Medicine between January 2022, and March 2022, regardless of whether they had reported experiencing pruritus symptoms. The visual analog scale and 5-D itch scale were used to determine the severity of itching in patients. Dermatological examination findings were also evaluated.

Results

Of the 249 patients with DM, mean duration since diabetes was diagnosed was 12 ± 9.2 [median 10 (0.3-46)] years, and the mean HbA1c levels were 8.1% ± 2.1%. Pruritus was detected in 77 (30.9%) patients and the mean duration of diabetes diagnosis was 13.4 ± 9.7 years. Examination of the microvascular and macrovascular complications showed that the incidence of retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease was 31.2% (p = 0.003), 31.2% (p = 0.005), 66.2% (p < 0.001) and 10.4% (p = 0.038), respectively, in the group with pruritus. These incidences were significantly higher in the group with pruritus than in those without pruritus. Dermatological examination showed that the most common condition was xerosis (64%), followed by fungal skin infection (16%) and bullous pemphigoid (8%). No skin findings were noted in 7% of patients who complained of itching.

Conclusion

Chronic pruritus may be associated with several factors such as poor glycemic control, high BMI and microvascular and macrovascular complications in patients with DM. Especially in patients with severe generalized pruritus who do not respond to standard antipruritic treatments, the use of DPP-4 inhibitors, a class of oral antidiabetic agents, should be questioned and all medications being used by the patient should be reviewed.

Case report: Insulin desensitization as the only option for managing insulin allergy in a Sudanese patient

Introduction

Allergic reactions to insulin have become very rare with the introduction of human insulin. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition that results from immediate IgE-mediated hypersensitivity. Desensitization to human insulin was reported to control immediate hypersensitivity reactions to insulin. Here, we describe the history and challenges of managing our patient and the development of an insulin desensitization protocol in a resource-limited setup.

Case Summary

A 42-year-old Sudanese woman with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes on maximum antidiabetic medications required insulin therapy to achieve reasonable glycemic control. She developed progressive and severe immediate hypersensitivity reactions to insulin, including anaphylaxis. Serum sample analysis demonstrated insulin-specific IgE antibodies. The patient's poor glycemic control and the need for breast surgery indicated insulin desensitization. A 4-day desensitization protocol was delivered in an ICU bed for close observation. Following successful desensitization and 24-h observation, our patient was discharged on pre-meal human insulin, which was tolerated well to the current date.

Conclusions

Although insulin allergy is rare, once encountered, it is very challenging in patients who have no other treatment options available. Different protocols for insulin desensitization are described in the literature; the agreed protocol was implemented successfully in our patient despite the limited resources.

Insulin allergy: a diagnostic and therapeutic strategy based on a retrospective cohort and a case-control study

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Insulin allergy is a rare but significant clinical challenge. We aimed to develop a management workflow by (1) validating clinical criteria to guide diagnosis, based on a retrospective cohort, and (2) assessing the diagnostic performance of confirmatory tests, based on a case-control study.

METHODS

In the retrospective cohort, patients with suspected insulin allergy were classified into three likelihood categories according to the presence of all (likely insulin allergy; 26/52, 50%), some (possible insulin allergy; 9/52, 17%) or none (unlikely insulin allergy; 17/52, 33%) of four clinical criteria: (1) recurrent local or systemic immediate or delayed hypersensitivity reactions; (2) reactions elicited by each injection; (3) reactions centred on the injection sites; and (4) reactions observed by the investigator (i.e. in response to an insulin challenge test). All underwent intradermal reaction (IDR) tests. A subsequent case-control study assessed the diagnostic performance of IDR, skin prick and serum anti-insulin IgE tests in ten clinically diagnosed insulin allergy patients, 24 insulin-treated non-allergic patients and 21 insulin-naive patients.

RESULTS

In the retrospective cohort, an IDR test validated the clinical diagnosis in 24/26 (92%), 3/9 (33%) and 0/14 (0%) likely, possible and unlikely insulin allergy patients, respectively. In the case-control study, an IDR test was 80% sensitive and 100% specific and identified the index insulin(s). The skin prick and IgE tests had a marginal diagnostic value. Patients with IDR-confirmed insulin allergy were treated using a stepwise strategy.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Subject to validation, clinical likelihood criteria can effectively guide diabetologists towards an insulin allergy diagnosis before undertaking allergology tests. An IDR test shows the best diagnostic performance. A progressive management strategy can subsequently be implemented. Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion is ultimately required in most patients.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov: NCT01407640.

Nursing a patient with latent autoimmune diabetes in adults with insulin-related lipodystrophy, allergy, and exogenous insulin autoimmune syndrome: A case report

BACKGROUND

Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) is a special type of type 1 diabetes mellitus. During the early stages, patients with LADA are treated with oral antidiabetics. However, insulin treatment is still required as islet function gradually declines. Once patients have developed insulin allergy, clinical treatment and nursing care become very challenging.

CASE SUMMARY

Here, we report a case of LADA with insulin-related lipodystrophy, allergy, and exogenous insulin autoimmune syndrome during insulin treatment, thus making it very difficult to effectively control glucose levels with insulin. We attempted subcutaneous injection and an insulin pump to desensitize the patient’s response to insulin, and finally assisted the doctor to select the appropriate insulin treatment for the patient. We describe the management of this patient from a nursing viewpoint.

CONCLUSION

We summarize the nursing experience of a case with complex insulin allergy requiring desensitization treatment. Our approach is very practical and can be applied to similar patients needing insulin desensitization.

Insulin Therapy: “When Saviour Turns Hostile”

Insulin is the cornerstone of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) treatment. Insulin allergy in patients with T1DM on insulin is an uncommon problem that might manifest itself as immediate or delayed symptoms after injections. We present 2 cases: the first is a 17-year-old girl who was diagnosed with T1DM at the age of 14 and has had several skin lesions at injection sites over the past 2 months that have not responded to antibiotics. The second case involves a 4-year-old boy who was diagnosed with T1DM at the age of 15 months and had non-tender, erythematous, and indurated lesions. Insulin hypersensitivity was detected in both cases, thus newer analogues were administered instead of regular and isophane insulin, and the lesions dramatically reduced.

Insulin Allergy to Detemir Followed by Rapid Onset of Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Case Report and Literature Review

The management of diabetes mellitus in an insulin-dependent patient is challenging in the setting of concomitant antibody-mediated-insulin hypersensitivity. We report a case of a 62-year-old woman with pre-existing type 2 diabetes mellitus of 10 years duration who developed type 3 hypersensitivity reaction to insulin analogue detemir, and subsequently, severe diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). She was C-peptide negative and was diagnosed with insulin-dependent diabetes. Despite increasing dose adjustments, insulin-meal matching, and compliance with insulin, she experienced episodes of unexpected hyperglycaemia and hypoglycaemia. The development of rash after detemir initiation and rapid progression to DKA suggests an aberrant immune response leading to the insulin allergy and antibody-induced interference with insulin analogues. Glycaemic control in the patient initially improved after being started on subcutaneous insulin infusion pump with reduced insulin requirements. However, after a year on pump therapy, localised insulin hypersensitivity reactions started, and glycaemic control gradually deteriorated.

Successful desensitization in a patient with hypersensitivity to multiple insulin preparations - case report

Hypersensitivity to insulin has decreased substantially in the past three decades, since purified human insulin was introduced to replace heterogeneous porcine and bovine preparations. However, human insulin and its analogs still have immunogenic potential that may prove detrimental for hypersensitive insulin-dependent diabetics. In cases of anaphylactic reactions to insulin, rapid desensitization may be considered as a treatment strategy. We present the first case of successful insulin desensitization in Romania for an uncontrolled diabetic patient with type I hypersensitivity to multiple insulin analogs.

Study on the mechanism of Gegen Qinlian Decoction for treating type II diabetes mellitus by integrating network pharmacology and pharmacological evaluation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Gegen Qinlian Decoction (GQD) is a classic traditional Chinese medicine prescription that is widely used to clinically treat diabetes mellitus. It is composed of Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi (ge gen), Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (huang qin), Coptidis chinensis Franch. (huang lian), and Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. (gan cao). However, the active ingredients in GQD and their mechanism of action are unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, we aimed to verify the efficacy of GQD in improving insulin resistance (IR) in diabetic mice and used network pharmacology to identify potential targets and pathways underlying its mechanism of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A mouse model of diabetes was created by feeding mice a high-fat diet followed by an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. These type II diabetic mice were administered either a clinical dose or a high dose of GQD, after which blood glucose and serum insulin levels were measured to assess its effects on IR. Network pharmacology was used to construct a 'component-pathway-target' network to elucidate the likely targets and pathways modulated in common by GQD components. Furthermore, mRNA transcript levels and protein expression levels of oestrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) were determined.

RESULTS

The in vivo experiment showed that GQD markedly decreased blood glucose and increased serum insulin levels in type II diabetic mice. Network pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis indicated that GQD regulated 82 corresponding proteins and 59 relevant biological pathways associated with diabetes. One such target was ESR1, which was significantly decreased at both the mRNA and protein levels in diabetic mice, but whose levels were significantly increased by GQD treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This project provides a scientific basis for understanding the effectiveness of multi-component, multi-target compound formulas, as well as a new strategy for investigating therapeutic drugs for type II diabetes and other diseases.

Biologics: structural heterogeneity and immunogenicity

In principle the whole human proteome is available for the generation of recombinant proteins and glycoproteins that may serve as drugs (biologics). Endogenous human proteins and glycoproteins are structurally heterogeneous but are recognized as self by the immune system; however, recombinant protein and glycoprotein molecules are necessarily produced in heterologous systems and may include structural variants that are non-self and potentially immunogenic. The addition of human type oligosaccharides may be critical to function while the addition of non-human sugar residues can render biologics immunogenic. A particular concern is the structure of oligosaccharides attached by the hamster and murine cell lines that provide the dominant production platform. Critical structure and function properties that contribute to optimization of therapeutic potential are illustrated through recombinant erythropoietin and antibody therapeutics.

Successful management of type IV hypersensitivity reactions to human insulin analogue with injecting mixtures of biphasic insulin aspart and dexamethasone

Although hypersensitivity reaction to insulin was supposed to be less-frequent with current insulin analogue, case reports with different types of allergic reactions to insulin analogue were still reported. The most common form is type I hypersensitivity reaction with IgE-mediated. Besides, type III (IgG and IgM-mediated) and type IV (T-cell mediated delayed reaction) hypersensitivity reactions were also reported. Here we presented a long-standing type 2 diabetes with insulin requirements with hypersensitivity reactions to insulin actrapid, insulin aspart, insulin glargine, insulin detemir, and biphasic insulin aspart 30. Insulin desensitization was performed as initial management but failed as skin biopsy with immunohistochemical staining proved type IV hypersensitivity reaction. We continued with the next treatment approach using subcutaneous injection with the mixture of biphasic insulin aspart 30 and dexamethasone to alleviate allergy, and the result was successful with steroid-free biphasic insulin aspart 30 injection eight months later. Besides, the treatment effect had lasted after ten years even with switched type of insulin analogue from biphasic insulin aspart 30 to insulin glargine and insulin aspart. The case report demonstrated a good example of how clinicians deal with the rare but important questions of hypersensitivity reactions to insulin analogue.

Cutaneous Adverse Effects of Diabetes Mellitus Medications and Medical Devices: A Review

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in the USA. If uncontrolled, diabetes can lead to devastating complications. Diabetes medications and medical devices largely contribute to the significant financial expense that the disease inflicts on affected individuals and society. Alongside significant economic burden, there are numerous cutaneous adverse effects associated with diabetes medications and medical devices. Despite the large and increasing number of individuals living with diabetes and the wide use of the related medications and medical devices, there is limited literature that comprehensively documents their cutaneous adverse effects. These cutaneous adverse effects are significant as they can worsen glycemic control, increase disease distress, and may increase risk of associated complications. Thus, it is important that providers can recognize these cutaneous adverse effects, identify the culprit agents, and can properly manage them. In this article, we provide a critical review of the cutaneous adverse effects of medications and devices used in the management of diabetes and provide insight into risk factors and prevention and an overview of therapeutic management. An emphasis is placed on clinical recognition and treatment for use of the medical providers who, regardless of practice setting, will treat patients with diabetes.

Oral Pharmacotherapy as Alternative Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a 61 Year Old Ethnic Filipino Man with Insulin Allergies

Allergy to insulin occurs in approximately 2% of patients treated with insulin. However, major guidelines fail to emphasize this serious adverse effect. In this article, we report on a 61 year old ethnic Filipino man who developed urticaria and pruritus with a swollen tongue, which necessitated a visit to the emergency department. His clinical diagnosis was confirmed by a high titer of anti-insulin antibodies. His condition was successfully managed by discontinuing insulin and by treatment with oral hypoglycemic agents, with no additional adverse reactions. At the most recent follow-up visit, his antibody titer had fallen; however, that titer has not normalized. Also, the patient currently does not have uticaria.

Insulin allergy can be successfully managed by a systematic approach

Background

Type I insulin allergy can be a challenging condition, and there is no international consensus on how to establish the diagnosis. Measurement of specific IgE and skin testing have been cornerstones in the diagnostic work-up. However, these tests have limitations, mainly lack of correlation between test results and clinical findings. At the Allergy Centre, Odense University Hospital, patients with suspected insulin allergy have been evaluated since 2003. The aim of this study was to establish a systematic approach to diagnose and treat patients with insulin allergy.

Methods

The study was conducted retrospectively by retrieving data from the Allergy Centre database on patients with suspected insulin allergy evaluated from 2003 to 2017. The examination comprised a comprehensive medical history, specific IgE against insulin and intracutaneous tests (ICT) with different insulins.

Results

A total of 144 patients were examined on suspicion of insulin allergy of which 110 had negative specific IgE in serum. Of the remaining 34 patients, 33 had ICT performed; 2 had negative ICTs, while 31 had one or more positive ICT. All 34 patients had mild symptoms, and 4 could obtain symptom relief with antihistamines or local steroids, 9 could be managed with oral antidiabetics, and 7 were switched to other insulins. The final 14 patients were offered an insulin pump because of reactions to many different insulins, many positive ICTs, unmanageable diabetes, young age and compliance, or convenience.

Conclusion

Insulin allergy can be managed by a systematic approach, and symptom relief is obtainable in most patients.

Hypersensitivity reactions to human insulin analogs in insulin-naïve patients: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to raise awareness of hypersensitivity reactions to human insulin analogs (HIAs) in insulin-naïve patients and encourage consistent and detailed reporting of HIA reactions.

DATA SOURCES

A search of PubMed, MEDLINE and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts using the terms 'insulin' and 'hypersensitivity' was completed with English language, humans, and publication date after 1 January 1990 as limits.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION

The initial search identified 598 articles. These titles and abstracts were reviewed for relevance (e.g. mention of HIA) resulting in the exclusion of 477 articles. The full texts of the remaining titles were evaluated in addition to each article's references to identify additional reports meeting criteria (n = 14). Upon extensive review, 118 articles were excluded for not meeting prespecified inclusion criteria, resulting in 17 articles.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Evidence supporting hypersensitivity reactions to HIAs was variable, potentially due to a variety of causes (e.g. difficulty identifying a true case of hypersensitivity reaction to HIAs). Inconsistencies were noted for the identification, confirmatory testing, management, and reporting of these reactions. Management strategies included use of insulin desensitization protocols, antihistamines, steroids, immunosuppressant/immunomodulator therapies, conversion to noninsulin therapies, and pancreas transplantation.

CONCLUSIONS

Complete and consistent identification, evaluation, management, and reporting of these reactions is essential. Specific aspects of the patient's history should be reported, including previous insulin exposure, the specific HIAs used, duration of use prior to the reaction, a clear timeline of the reaction, and discussion of precipitating events or confounding factors.

Allergic and non-allergic skin reactions associated with growth hormone therapy: elucidation of causative agents

BACKGROUND

Allergic and non-allergic skin reactions to recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) are uncommon and infrequently reported. However, physicians should be aware of these potential side effects to determine whether the reactions constitute true allergies and how to proceed with growth hormone therapy. To review allergic and non-allergic skin reactions caused by rhGH and subsequent diagnostic workup and management options.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report the case of a 12-year-old healthy male presenting with idiopathic short stature. He developed an itchy skin rash over the chest and abdomen, 15 min after administration of the first dose of rhGH, leading us to review allergic and non-allergic skin reactions to rhGH. In our patient, an immediate skin reaction after administration of rhGH prompted a concern about a type I hypersensitivity reaction (HS) and the discontinuation of rhGH. However, after a dermatologic evaluation and observed administration of rhGH without subsequent rash, the initial eruption was likely an exacerbation of his underlying atopic dermatitis and a type I HS was felt to be unlikely. The rhGH was resumed and he has been on rhGH for the past 1 year with no recurrence of rash and with improvement in growth velocity.

CONCLUSIONS

Though rare, allergic and non-allergic skin reactions are known to occur with rhGH. It is important to know if the allergic reaction was due to the growth hormone molecule or one of the preservatives. It is also important to consider a non-allergic reaction due to flare up of underlying skin disorders as in our patient.

Effect of Liraglutide on Type B Insulin Resistance Syndrome and Insulin Allergy in Type 2 Diabetes: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION

The appearance of anti-insulin antibodies or an allergy to insulin occasionally causes clinical problems with glycemic control in insulin users.

METHODS

In the present report, we describe a therapeutic approach that was employed for a man with type 2 diabetes who had insulin allergy, anti-insulin antibodies, and anti-insulin receptor antibodies that developed during his insulin treatment.

RESULTS

We started the patient on liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, and attained glycemic control without incurring any side effects. Two years after liraglutide induction, his blood glucose was being maintained at a healthy level by liraglutide monotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Liraglutide may be a therapeutic option for patients with insulin allergy, anti-insulin antibodies, and type B insulin resistance syndrome, as it represents an alternative strategy to insulin.

Subcutaneous Injectable Drugs Hypersensitivity and Desensitization: Insulin and Monoclonal Antibodies

Injectable drugs, including monoclonal antibodies, are becoming crucial components in the management of chronic diseases. The most common side effects are local reactions at the site of administration. With the increased and prolonged use of these medications, we are seeing increased reports of hypersensitivity reactions. The aim of this article is to discuss the signs and symptoms of these reactions as well as management, which may involve desensitization for 3 commonly encountered injectable drugs: tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors (etanercept and adalimumab), insulin, and omalizumab.

Type III Hypersensitivity Reaction to Subcutaneous Insulin Preparations in a Type 1 Diabetic

Management of type 1 diabetes in patients who have insulin hypersensitivity is a clinical challenge and places patients at risk for recurrent diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Hypersensitivity reactions can be due to the patient's response to the insulin molecule itself or one of the injection's non-insulin components. It is therefore crucial for clinicians to quickly recognize the type of hypersensitivity reaction that is occurring and identify potentially immunogenic additives for the purpose of directing therapy as various insulin preparations have differing ingredients. We present the case of a 23-year-old diabetic female with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) and autoimmune enteropathy who developed a type III hypersensitivity reaction to multiple formulations of subcutaneous insulin after years of use and the challenges of devising a long-term management strategy.

A comparison of the pharmacodynamic profiles of jet-injected regular human insulin versus conventionally administered insulin aspart in healthy volunteers

AIMS

Rapid-acting insulin analogues are generally preferred over regular human insulin because of their more immediate onset of action and shorter time-action profile. However, these analogues may not always be tolerated by or universally available for people with insulin-requiring diabetes. Jet injection has been demonstrated to facilitate faster insulin absorption. We determined whether administration of regular human insulin by jet injection achieves the same pharmacological properties as that of a rapid-acting insulin analogue.

METHODS

Twenty healthy volunteers received regular human insulin (0.2units/kg) by jet injection. Glucose 20% was infused intravenously to maintain euglycaemia over six hours. The glucose infusion rates (GIR) were determined to compare pharmacological profiles. These profiles were compared with data from two other studies in which a similar dose of insulin aspart was administered by conventional pen.

RESULTS

Regular human insulin by jet injection had a faster onset of glucose-lowering effect compared to aspart by conventional pen (T-GIR_50%, 30.8±2.9 versus 43.1±3.2min, P<0.01). There were no differences in time to maximal GIR (106.1±11.9 versus 95.8±9.2min, P=0.50), maximal GIR (8.6±0.7 versus 7.7±0.7mg/kg/min, P=0.0.33), total glucose-lowering effect (101.0±9.8 versus 87.6±7.0g, P=0.28), and time until 50% of glucose disposal (144.8±5.6 versus 151.3±5.1min, P=0.39).

CONCLUSIONS

Jet-injected regular human insulin had a pharmacological profile that was essentially not dissimilar from that of aspart insulin administered by conventional pen, and can therefore be used as an alternative for conventionally administered rapid-acting insulin analogues.

Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion as an Effective Method of Desensitization Therapy for Diabetic Patients with Insulin Allergy: A 4-year Single-center Experience

PURPOSE

This article summarizes our experiences in the application of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) as a method of rapid desensitization therapy for diabetic patients with insulin allergy that was subsequently switched to a regimen of multiple-dose injections for long-term insulin therapy.

METHODS

The clinical data of 11 diabetic patients with insulin allergy in Peking Union Medical College Hospital from April 1, 2008, through December 31, 2011, were retrospectively analyzed.

FINDINGS

All 11 conditions were diagnosed by case history, skin testing, determination of serum specific anti-insulin IgE, and reaction to withdrawal of insulin. Seven patients accepted the traditional injection method of desensitization, and 5 patients accepted CSII with the protocol designed for this study (1 patient accepted CSII after failure by the formal method). Six of the 7 patients who accepted the traditional method and all 5 patients who accepted CSII had successful results. All 5 patients in the CSII group switched to a regimen of multiple dosage injections. In a survey of 28 nurses, both experienced nurses and practical nurses preferred to use CSII as the method of desensitization.

IMPLICATIONS

It is feasible and effective for diabetic patients with insulin allergy to use CSII as a method of rapid desensitization with subsequent switching to a regimen of multiple-dose injections for long-term insulin therapy.

Insulin Allergy

Objective: A case of insulin allergy to insulin aspart, insulin aspart protamine/insulin aspart 70/30, insulin lispro, and insulin lispro protamine/insulin lispro 75/25 in a patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus is reported. Case Summary: A 76-year-old Caucasian male weighing 81 kg presented with complaints of burning, lumps, and a rash where his insulin aspart protamine/insulin aspart 70/30 was injected 2 months after initiation. Because poor injection technique can mimic insulin allergy, the patient was counseled again on proper injection technique. The patient presented 2 weeks later with the same complaints. Insulin aspart protamine/insulin aspart 70/30 was discontinued and insulin lispro protamine/insulin lispro 75/25 was initiated. The patient presented 3 months later with a localized reaction. Insulin lispro protamine/insulin lispro 75/25 was discontinued and insulin U100 glargine and insulin lispro were initiated. One week later, the patient still had complaints of a localized reaction and was referred to an allergist for testing. Skin prick tests revealed insulin allergy to insulin aspart and insulin lispro but not to insulin U100 glargine or insulin glulisine. The patient’s regimen was changed to insulin U100 glargine and insulin glulisine, and he has not experienced any reaction since. Discussion: Allergic reactions to human insulin preparations are rare and may present as a localized reaction or a generalized reaction. Different types of allergic reactions to human insulin have been reported, including type I, type III, and type IV hypersensitivity reactions. If insulin allergy is suspected, the following steps should be taken to confirm such allergy: evaluation of injection technique, switching to a different insulin preparation, and referral to an allergist for allergy testing if necessary. Conclusion: A patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus experienced a type I hypersensitivity reaction to insulin aspart, insulin aspart protamine/insulin aspart 70/30, insulin lispro, and insulin lispro protamine/insulin lispro 75/25.

The effects of liraglutide on both hypereosinophilic insulin allergy and the characteristics of anti-insulin antibodies in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a case report

Background

Liraglutide is one of the glucagon-like peptide-1 analogs; there are only a few reports of liraglutide being used for the treatment of insulin allergy. Furthermore, anti-insulin immunoglobulin G antibodies are occasionally detected in patients with diabetes. Hence, we report a case in which switching to liraglutide therapy ameliorated both the symptoms of insulin allergy with hypereosinophilia and the characteristics of insulin antibodies in a patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 70-year-old Japanese man with type 2 diabetes who developed insulin allergy with hypereosinophilia. Anti-insulin antibodies, high glycated hemoglobin levels (approximately 12 %), and high serum insulin levels were detected. Because a change in his insulin treatment was inefficient, treatment with liraglutide to protect residual insulin secretion was started, resulting in improvements in his insulin allergy, serum glycated hemoglobin, insulin, and eosinophil levels. Scatchard plots revealed decreased binding capacity and increased affinity constant for high affinity sites of anti-insulin antibodies.

Conclusions

Liraglutide might be useful for treating insulin allergy and anti-insulin antibodies in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Immunogenicity of Biotherapeutics: Causes and Association with Posttranslational Modifications

Today, potential immunogenicity can be better evaluated during the drug development process, and we have rational approaches to manage the clinical consequences of immunogenicity. The focus of the scientific community should be on developing sensitive diagnostics that can predict immunogenicity-mediated adverse events in the small fraction of subjects that develop clinically relevant anti-drug antibodies. Here, we discuss the causes of immunogenicity which could be product-related (inherent property of the product or might be picked up during the manufacturing process), patient-related (genetic profile or eating habits), or linked to the route of administration. We describe various posttranslational modifications (PTMs) and how they may influence immunogenicity. Over the last three decades, we have significantly improved our understanding about the types of PTMs of biotherapeutic proteins and their association with immunogenicity. It is also now clear that all PTMs do not lead to clinical immunogenicity. We also discuss the mechanisms of immunogenicity (which include T cell-dependent and T cell-independent responses) and immunological tolerance. We further elaborate on the management of immunogenicity in preclinical and clinical setting and the unique challenges raised by biosimilars, which may have different immunogenic potential from their parent biotherapeutics.

Posttranslational Modifications and the Immunogenicity of Biotherapeutics

Whilst the amino acid sequence of a protein is determined by its gene sequence, the final structure and function are determined by posttranslational modifications (PTMs), including quality control (QC) in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and during passage through the Golgi apparatus. These processes are species and cell specific and challenge the biopharmaceutical industry when developing a production platform for the generation of recombinant biologic therapeutics. Proteins and glycoproteins are also subject to chemical modifications (CMs) both in vivo and in vitro. The individual is naturally tolerant to molecular forms of self-molecules but nonself variants can provoke an immune response with the generation of anti-drug antibodies (ADA); aggregated forms can exhibit enhanced immunogenicity and QC procedures are developed to avoid or remove them. Monoclonal antibody therapeutics (mAbs) are a special case because their purpose is to bind the target, with the formation of immune complexes (ICs), a particular form of aggregate. Such ICs may be removed by phagocytic cells that have antigen presenting capacity. These considerations may frustrate the possibility of ameliorating the immunogenicity of mAbs by rigorous exclusion of aggregates from drug product. Alternate strategies for inducing immunosuppression or tolerance are discussed.

Two Cases of Allergy to Insulin in Gestational Diabetes

Allergic reaction to insulin is uncommon since the introduction of human recombinant insulin preparations and is more rare in pregnant than non-pregnant females due to altered immune reaction during pregnancy. Herein, we report two cases of allergic reaction to insulin in gestational diabetes that were successfully managed. One case was a 33-year-old female using isophane-neutral protamine Hagedorn human insulin and insulin lispro. She experienced dyspnea, cough, urticaria and itching sensation at the sites of insulin injection immediately after insulin administration. We discontinued insulin therapy and started oral hypoglycemic agents with metformin and glibenclamide. The other case was a 32-year-old female using insulin lispro and insulin detemer. She experienced pruritus and burning sensation and multiple nodules at the sites of insulin injection. We changed the insulin from insulin lispro to insulin aspart. Assessments including immunoglobulin E (IgE), IgG, eosinophil, insulin antibody level and skin biopsy were performed. In the two cases, the symptoms were resolved after changing the insulin to oral agents or other insulin preparations. We report two cases of allergic reaction to human insulin in gestational diabetes due to its rarity.

A case of hypersensitivity to soluble and isophane insulins but not to insulin glargine

Insulin is an important agent for the treatment of diabetes mellitus (DM). Allergic reactions to insulin therapy, although rare, have been evident since animal insulin became available for the treatment of DM in 1922. Hypersensitivity to insulin has considerably been reduced with the introduction of human insulin produced by recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid technology. Here, we present a case of Type 2 DM who demonstrated immediate (Type 1) hypersensitivity reaction on the sites of subcutaneous injection of soluble and isophane insulin but insulin glargine was tolerated well and provided good glycemic control.

Successful management of insulin allergy and autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type 4 with desensitization therapy and glucocorticoid treatment: a case report and review of the literature

Introduction. Insulin allergy is a rare complication of insulin therapy, especially in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Key manifestations are hypersensitivity-related symptoms and poor metabolic control. T1DM, as well as insulin allergy, may develop in the context of autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome (APS), further complicating management. Case Report. A 17-year-old male patient, diagnosed with T1DM, was treated with various insulin therapy schemes over several months, which resulted in recurrent anaphylactoid reactions and poor glycemic control, after which he was referred to our Endocrinology and Immunology Department. A prick test was carried out for all commercially available insulin presentations and another insulin scheme was designed but proved unsuccessful. A desensitization protocol was started with Glargine alongside administration of Prednisone, which successfully induced tolerance. Observation of skin lesions typical of vitiligo prompted laboratory workup for other autoimmune disorders, which returned positive for autoimmune gastritis/pernicious anemia. These findings are compatible with APS type 4. Discussion. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of insulin allergy in type 4 APS, as well as this particular combination in APS. Etiopathogenic components shared by insulin allergy and APS beg for further research in immunogenetics to further comprehend pathophysiologic aspects of these diseases.

Management of multiple drug allergies in children

Children with multiple drug allergies are likely to require treatment with one or more of the drugs to which they may have had a reaction, when there is no alternate effective drug available. Detailed review of their history and/or use of appropriate diagnostic studies will help determine the potential safety of readministering the desired drug as well as the method for its readministration, most likely in the form of a drug challenge or desensitization. A practical approach to the diagnosis and treatment of children with multiple drug allergies is described in this review.

Desensitization of allergy to human insulin and its analogs by administering insulin aspart and insulin glargine

Insulin allergy is a rare clinical situation. We report a 51-year-old patient with type 2 diabetes who required multiple daily insulin injections. The patient developed allergy to human regular insulin and insulin analogs (insulin aspart and insulin glargine), which was resolved by subcutaneous insulin desensitization.

Insulin Therapy in Home Health

Diabetes mellitus, whether type 1 or type 2, offers special challenges to home health care providers. Treatment of diabetes can become increasing complex. While insulin remains the cornerstone of treatment in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1DM), the utilization of insulin to safely control blood glucose is also necessary for many patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Many different insulin products are available, with each product possessing different characteristics and adverse effect potential. Balancing glycemic control with patient safety is paramount. The individualization of insulin therapy can be challenging for both patients and health care professionals. Regular evaluation of blood glucose monitoring is vital for patient assessment. This article provides a review of insulin for providers caring for patients in the home health care setting.

Development of insulin allergy after bone marrow transplantation

BACKGROUND

Insulin allergy is a not uncommon condition even though human insulin and insulin analogues are widely used. However, the development of insulin allergy after bone marrow transplantation has not been reported.

CASE REPORT

A 44-year-old Japanese woman had aplastic anaemia and secondary haemochromatosis. She was diagnosed with having diabetes at age 32 years and had been treated with human insulin. At age 34 years, bone marrow transplantation was performed. One year later, a rash and urticaria appeared immediately after insulin injections. Intracutaneous tests were positive for both human insulins and analogues, whereas the test for protamine was negative. Furthermore, an IgE-radioallergosorbent test against insulin was positive. Thus, we diagnosed the patient with having an IgE-mediated type I allergy against insulin. Insulin therapy with insulin aspart, which showed the least skin reaction, was continued and the insulin allergy disappeared in 7 years.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first description of insulin allergy after bone marrow transplantation. Our case underscores the effects of bone marrow cells on IgE-mediated type I allergy for insulin.

Successful control of a case of severe insulin allergy with liraglutide

A 72‐year‐old woman presented with repeated hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic episodes because of an insulin allergy. On admission, she was diagnosed with type B insulin resistance syndrome. She was also found to have anti‐insulin antibodies. After steroid therapy, glycemic control improved dramatically accompanied by the disappearance of the insulin allergy. We then introduced liraglutide, which successfully stabilized her glycemic episodes without allergic reactions. Liraglutide might be useful to treat patients with severe insulin allergy.