Hyaluronidase allergy: A rare cause of periorbital inflammation

Abstract

Hyaluronidase is a bovine or ovine testicular protein that is used as an adjunct to co-administered medicaments and fluids to enhance their dispersion and absorption through the degradation of hyaluronan. While it is a known potential allergen, there are few reports of hyaluronidase hypersensitivity. A 56-year-old lady presented 8 hours post glaucoma surgery with ipsilateral lacriminorrhoea, periorbital erythema, oedema, proptosis, pruritis and conjunctival chemosis. Right ocular motility was restricted and visual acuity was reduced. The reaction settled with oral corticosteroids and antihistamines. Hyaluronidase allergy was confirmed on skin prick testing. Hyaluronidase allergy is rare. In ..