Preventing iatrogenic gelatin anaphylaxis

Gelatin is an animal-derived proteinaceous substance found in foods, cosmetics, and medical supplies. It is generated by partial hydrolysis and treatment of collagen, commonly porcine or bovine. The result is a heterogenous mixture of water-soluble proteins with gel-forming properties that lends its texture to foods like marshmallows and jellies.1,2 This and other properties have been exploited for medical purposes such as in pill capsules, hemostatic agents, and vaccines.3 For people who are allergic to gelatin, the pervasive and sometimes hidden nature of this allergen in medical supplies presents a unique problem and a potential source of iatrogenic harm.
Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Tags: Review Source Type: research