Digital vasculitis following allergic desensitization treatment
Cabrera, G.E.; Citera, G.; Gutiérrez, M.; Scopelitis, E.; Espinoza, L.R.
Journal of Rheumatology 20(11): 1970-1972
1993
ISSN/ISBN: 0315-162X PMID: 8308789 Document Number: 411523
Systemic necrotizing vasculitis or a polyarteritis nodosa-like clinical presentation, is an unusual complication of immunotherapy (hyposensitization therapy). We describe a patient who developed features of vasculitis several years after beginning hyposensitization treatment for allergic rhinitis. In the 7 months preceding the onset of the vasculitis he experienced 4 episodes of anaphylaxis immediately after receiving desensitization injections, The vasculitis was characterized by the abrupt onset of pain and discoloration of the middle 3 digits of his right hand. Cyanosis and small areas of frank necrosis of these digits were present. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein were elevated and total serum complement was decreased. The development of digital vasculitis following hyposensitization is clearly illustrated in this patient.