A case of anaphylactic reaction to oxytocin in a parturient undergoing emergency caesarean section
1 Junior Resident, Department of Anaesthesiology, JJM Medical College, Davanagere, Karnataka, India.
2 Professor and Head, Department of Anaesthesiology, JJM Medical College, Davanagere, Karnataka, India.
Case Report
World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2024, 20(01), 151–152.
Article DOI: 10.30574/wjbphs.2024.20.1.0726
Publication history:
Received on 26 August 2024; revised on 02 October 2024; accepted on 05 October 2024
Abstract:
Anaphylaxis to oxytocin is a rare but critical complication that can arise during labor and delivery [1], necessitating rapid recognition and management. We describe the case of a 20-year-old term primigravida with gestational hypertension who underwent an emergency lower segment caesarean section (LSCS) due to fetal distress. After successful spinal anesthesia with 0.5% bupivacaine, an infusion of 10 U oxytocin was initiated immediately following the delivery of the infant. Shortly thereafter, the patient developed acute respiratory distress, hypotension, and swelling of the lips and tongue, which progressed to bradycardia and a drop in oxygen saturation. Emergency intubation was performed due to significant airway edema, and resuscitation included intravenous adrenaline, atropine, hydrocortisone, pheniramine, and deriphylline. The surgical procedure concluded uneventfully, and the patient was transferred to the ICU for mechanical ventilation. She was extubated the following day and discharged five days later without complications. This case underscores the rare occurrence of anaphylaxis due to oxytocin administration. It highlights the need for vigilance and preparedness for allergic reactions in obstetric settings, as well as the importance of having alternative uterotonics available.
Keywords:
Oxytocin; Anaphylactic Reaction; Airway Edema
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