Carboplatin induced hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) frequently occur in patients who are being treated for malignancy. Mostly the reactions are IgE mediated. Currently, the skin testing is the only method for identifying patients sensitive to carboplatin. This article reviews the utility of carboplatin skin testing and factors that influence the interpretation of skin testing results.
Carboplatin is a broad spectrum anti-neoplastic agent which is an integral part of the first line and treatment regimens for multiple malignancies including breast, ovarian, and lung. However, its clinical benefits with relatively lower toxicity profile have been affected by the development of hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs). Although the exact mechanism of HSRs is unknown, it has been described as primarily type I (IgE-mediated reactions) and in very few cases, type IV (T-cell mediated) HSRs. It is…
