Glatiramer acetate desensitisation in multiple sclerosis patients - the case report

Methods The 38-year-old woman with a diagnosis of MS was examined from April until July 2013 at the Allergology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology. In the absence of specific IgE tests against GA, a basophil activation test (BAT) was performed with a borderline result (GA concentration 1.0 ul/ml with 7.8% activated basophils, stimulation index 2.1). Then followed the GA skin tests with a positive results (skin prick test was negative, i.d. dilution 1:100 and 1:10 were positive (6 and 7.6mm weal diameter). Finally, on 11th July, 2013, after written informed patient consent, a 4-hour outpatient GA desensitisation procedure was carried out. Beginning with 20ng, we administered subcutaneous GA suspension in increasing dosage every 30 minutes to the target dose of 20 mg GA. Patients outcomes were monitored by return visit and by telephone follow-up. Results No episodes of anaphylaxis or other adverse reaction occurred during or immediately after desensitisation. Our patient was able to successfully continue GA therapy (20 mg GA s.c. daily).