Analysis and treatment of 45 platinum-allergic gynecologic malignant tumors

Drug Desensitizations for Chemotherapy: Safety and Efficacy in Preventing Anaphylaxis

Hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) to antineoplastic drugs are increasing due to the expanding use of classical and new drugs in a wide variety of malignancies. PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The goal of this review is to provide current best practices in the diagnosis and management of HSRs based on data and evidence. RECENT FINDINGS: A plethora of studies have provided evidence of the safety and efficacy of rapid drug desensitizations (RDD) to allow for the reintroduction of antineoplastic drugs following an HSR, based on risk stratification. Recently described biomarkers such as basophil activation test, total IgE, BRCA genotyping, and serum IL-6 can aid in guiding improved precision desensitization protocols. Personalized premedication regimens and protocols have improved RDD safety and outcomes. RDD allows for the continued use of chemotherapeutic drugs without impaired drug efficacy. RDD represents the best approach to maintain cancer patients on their most effective treatments.

Value of skin tests for managing allergic hypersensitivity reactions to platinum compounds

Background Platinum-based therapy continues to be one of the pillars of the treatment of different types of cancer. However, many times the responsible clinician renounces its use after the appearance of a hypersensitivity reaction. Objective To assess the value of skin tests (ST) in clinical practice to address the treatment of patients with suspicion of immediate hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) to platinum compounds. Method Single-center retrospective study of 3 years. Adult patients treated with any platinum compound who experienced HSR symptoms and for whom an oncologist requested ST, were included. ST with cisplatin, carboplatin and oxaliplatin were performed. Results Twenty-two patients were included. ST were positive in 12 patients (54.5%), of which 4 (33%) presented cross-reactivity to another platinum compound. Fifteen patients continued platinum-based chemotherapy: 9 patients with positive ST (4 continued by desensitization and 5 with another platinum compound) and 6 patients with negative ST, of which 1 repeated an HSR. A NPV of 0.91 was calculated. Conclusion ST helped physicians identify patients most susceptible to platinum derivative allergies and resume platinum-based therapy in many patients for whom no suitable therapeutic alternative was clinically acceptable.