Carboplatin Allergy

My wife developed a carboplatin allergy on her 8th infusion (2nd infusion of her second cycle). Because carboplatin had been so effective before, we tried a 4-hour desensitization protocol but she reacted again. I've read a report by doctors at Westmead Hospital in Sidney Australia which describes 8 patients who were desensitized successfully using a 4-day regimen. Three of those patients had failed an earlier desensitization attempt. Do you know whether this protocol is used in the US? How can my wife get it administered?

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi There,
It is very common to experience an allergy to carboplatin. It classically occurs on the second infusion when it is given again after primary first line chemotherapy. At Massachusetts General Hospital, we work closely with an allergist who meets with people who have experienced this allergy. Patients are then admitted to the hospital and receive their carboplatin over slow infusion over 24 hours. It is possible to have a reaction again. This can usually be overcome by slowing down the infusion even more. This is probably similar to the protocol in Sydney, Australia. We have not found it necessary to go to a four day regimen.

You should ask your doctor about meeting with an allergist at your institution. Having said that, carbo reactions can be very frightening and uncomfortable to the person experiencing them. Carbo reactions are also very dangerous and can be life threatening. There are many other chemotherapy options available for your wife and her oncologist to consider.
best wishes to you