An anaphylactic reaction to transdermal delivered fentanyl.

Abstract

Immediate allergic hypersensitivity reactions with fentanyl are rarely reported. We diagnosed a presumably IgE-mediated allergic hypersensitivity reaction comprising generalized erythema and bronchospasm 4 h after the first-time application of transdermal fentanyl. Prick test remained negative with fentanyl whereas an intradermal test (IDT) with fentanyl was positive (dilution 10(-2)). Cross-reactivity was found with sufentanil but not with remifentanil. The diagnosis was supported by the clinical history and a positive IDT with fentanyl. This case report confirms the need for a systematic allergological investigation in case of immediate hypersensitivity reactions for all drugs and all modes of administration.