Role of sugammadex in the treatment of anaphylaxis due to rocuronium in children: Extrapolation from adult and animal reports

Rocuronium-Induced Anaphylaxis in the Perioperative Period: A Clinical Review

Rocuronium, a nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent used for muscle relaxation especially during endotracheal intubation, can cause hypersensitivity reactions. This article provides an overview of anaphylactic reactions; risk factors; and the pathophysiology, presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and nursing implications associated with rocuronium-induced anaphylaxis. Life-threatening anaphylaxis can be immunoglobulin E-mediated or non-immunoglobulin E-mediated and usually occurs after the first dose. Anaphylaxis can present with hypotension and bronchospasm; cutaneal symptoms, such as erythema, may not be obvious. Diagnosis is initially presumptive and may require a transesophageal echocardiogram to rule out other causes of hypotension (eg, pulmonary embolus). Emergency treatment begins with epinephrine administration and fluid boluses; cardiac support devices may be needed. Definitive diagnosis requires early measurement of histamine and tryptase levels and skin testing after the patient recovers from the reaction. Perioperative nurses should be prepared to participate in emergency treatment of anaphylaxis and advocate for testing for a definitive diagnosis.

Biologics to treat anaphylaxis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this literature review was to review the latest use of biologics in the management of anaphylaxis. The methodology was to highlight both the nonbiologic management of anaphylaxis and the biologic management and how they can be used in conjunction with each other.

RECENT FINDINGS

As the phenotypes and endotypes of anaphylaxis are better portrayed, it furthers our understanding of the mechanisms of anaphylaxis. New applications of existing biologics to the prevention of anaphylaxis are described.

SUMMARY

Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening acute hypersensitivity reaction affecting up to 16.8% of the U.S. population. Acute management entails swift identification, removal of the causative agent, and the prevention of cardiovascular collapse, firstly with epinephrine. Adjunctive treatments such as antihistamines work to prevent anaphylaxis from recurring. Biologic management of anaphylaxis involves the use of large-molecule drugs such as monoclonal antibodies. Omalizumab, an IgG1 monoclonal antibody targeting unbound IgE, is the most prevalent and widely studied biologic in the prevention of anaphylaxis. Other monoclonal antibodies in development or approved for other indications, such as ligelizumab, quilizumab, MEDI4212, and dupilumab, may also have potential for preventing anaphylaxis through various mechanisms.