Anaphylaxis to Intravenous Tramadol in a Child

Pharmacology. 2015;96(5-6):256-8. doi: 10.1159/000441005. Epub 2015 Oct 20.

Abstract

Hypersensitivity reactions to tramadol are rare and the drug is commonly considered safe. Here, we report the first case of anaphylaxis to tramadol in a child. We point out the difficulty in reaching a confident diagnosis when testing opioid alkaloid drugs with histamine-releasing properties. Additionally, we showed the importance of a well-performed allergy work-up, especially when testing drugs with low experience and when standardized concentrations have not been tested. Moreover, this case provides insight into the possibility of severe reactions, and even anaphylaxis, to tramadol.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Analgesics, Opioid / administration & dosage
  • Analgesics, Opioid / adverse effects*
  • Analgesics, Opioid / therapeutic use
  • Anaphylaxis / chemically induced*
  • Anaphylaxis / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin E / blood
  • Injections, Intravenous
  • Intradermal Tests
  • Male
  • Tramadol / administration & dosage
  • Tramadol / adverse effects*
  • Tramadol / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Analgesics, Opioid
  • Immunoglobulin E
  • Tramadol