Drug Reactions and Desensitization to Chemotherapeutic Agents: An Overview and Case Study

Certain chemotherapy agents have an increased potential to cause allergic reactions. These reactions can vary in severity from mild to severe, and a change in treatment may be suggested for the patient to avoid the causative agent going forward. This can lead to suboptimal treatment and a change from first-line therapy to a second-line therapy. In certain scenarios, drug desensitization may be considered to allow for continued administration of a standard-of-care chemotherapy agent to cure or palliate a patient’s cancer.

At a Glance

• Allergic reactions to oncology medications are common and seen daily on inpatient and outpatient units.
• Reactions can be distressing to patients, and, depending on the severity of the reaction, desensitization may be indicated.
• Oncology nurses can educate and reassure patients about the safety of desensitization procedures.