Infusion Reactions: Experience in Oncology Day Care Unit

Abstract

The administration of antineoplastic drugs can generate immediately hypersensitivity reactions, in Oncology-Day Care Unit hospitals. The incidence and severity are difficult to predict and the signs and symptoms vary, ranging from erythematous skin reactions to severe anaphylactic reactions, with a lethal risk. Prevention is essential to reduce the prevalence and severity of these events and early recognition is a key element in resolving the condition.   The objectives of the present study were: reviewing of infusion reactions in our institution, particularly, their severity, incidence, drug, subsequent reactions, type of pre- and post-medication administered. We also defined a sub-analysis to identify predictors for subsequent reactions.    Observational, retrospective and single-center study, analyzing the reports of infusion reactions over 3 years. Demographic data and information regarding the infusion reaction situation were collected. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, t test, Fisher’s exact test and logistic regression, using the software StataIC 15.1 (StataCorp LLC).    The review of the patient’s pathological and allergic history, the monitoring compliance to premedication, therapeutic reconciliation and surveillance of vital signs are essential in the initial preinfusion assessment of antineoplastic treatments.   In our study, the prevalence of infusion reactions to taxanes and platinum is in line with previous reports in the literature. Institutional reviews of adverse events are crucial to improve current practices and develop more efficient practices.