558 Incidence of an anaphylaxis significantly decreased by avoiding cetuximab administration for the subjects sensitized against galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-Gal)

Background: A high prevalence of hypersensitivity to cetuximab has been reported in Southeast areas of the United States. IgE antibodies against cetuximab were present in the patients with cetuximab hypersensitivity and the antibodies were specific for galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-Gal) in cetuximab heavy-chain. We have also determined that patients with red meat allergy have IgE antibodies against alpha-Gal in Japan. In 2013, 13 patients with SCC of the head and neck were treated with cetuximab in Matsue Red Cross Hospital, and four of the 13 patients (30.8%) had anaphylactic shock during first infusion of cetuximab.
Source: Journal of Investigative Dermatology - Category: Dermatology Authors: Tags: Clinical Research: Patient Outcomes Research Source Type: research