Fatal Anaphylaxis Due to Atracurium without Cutaneous Manifestations: A Case Report

Abstract

Anaphylaxis or anaphylactic reaction is a medical emergency and it is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction involving the various systems of the body, especially the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. It is usually triggered by an antigen with subsequent release of mediators from basophil and mast cells. Diagnosis is mainly clinical although laboratory investigations may help in further confirmation. Anaphylaxis during anesthesia is a rare event but could be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Among all the anesthetic agents, neuromuscular blockers are the most notorious to cause anaphylaxis. We are sharing a case of 44 years old female patient who underwent breast cancer surgery under general anesthesia and she developed anaphylaxis due to atracurium injection without cutaneous manifestations. She was managed actively with complete recovery and had her surgery done with the same general anesthesia.