Anaphylaxis from the Carboxymethylcellulose Component of Barium Sulfate Suspension

Although allergic reactions to barium sulfate suspensions are estimated to occur at a rate of less than 2 per million, 1 , 2 the frequency has been reported to be increasing. 3 , 4 The cause of these reactions is not known, 5 – 9 but the additives in barium suspensions, 10 – 13 medications such as glucagon, 3 and exposure to latex 14 – 17 — for example, through contact with rubber gloves or balloons — have all been implicated. We describe a patient with anaphylaxis induced by the carboxymethylcellulose sodium in barium sulfate suspension. The reaction occurred after an upper gastrointestinal examination. Case Report A 63-year-old woman was admitted . . .