Title : Late hypersensitivity reactions to the BNT162b2 SARS-CoV-2 vaccine are linked to delayed skin sensitization and prior exposure to hyaluronic acid
Abstract:
Late hypersensitivity reactions to BNT162b2-vaccine have raised concerns regarding its safety. The yield of skin-testing with the BNT162b2v is unclear, so are the risk factors and outcomes of re-immunization after late HSR. In the presentation my research will be presented, in which I studied a series of patients with late HSR to BNT162b2v which were referred to the Sheba medical center from December 2020 to May 2021 with late HSR to the 1st dose of BNT162b2. HSR were defined as late if appeared or lasted >24 hours after inoculation. We compared late HSR to immediate HSR that appeared within minutes-2hours after vaccination. Intra-dermal testing with PEG-containing medication and BNT162b2v was performed. A total of 17 patients that presented with late-HSR (study group) and they were compared to 34 patients with immediate- HSR (control group). Delayed intra-dermal sensitivity to the vaccine was observed in 9/17(53%) of study group compared to 4/34(12%) in control group (P=0.01). Former exposure to a dermal filler with hyaluronic acid was documented among 7/17(41%) vs. 2/34(6%) in study and control groups respectively (P=0.0038). All patients presented with late HSRs were re-immunized successfully. In the presentation the link between late HSRs to BNT162b2v and a positive response to intra- dermal testing with the vaccine and prior exposure to dermal-fillers will be highlights. The audience will be able to learn about the tool of skin testing for evaluation of hypersensitivity reactions to drugs and vaccines. This information is relevant for physicians from all disciplines dealing with drug allergy and is crucial for each physician to be familiars with the relevant tools that are available in the allergy clinic in similar cases. Moreover, the audience will learn about the potential risks of skin fillers to certain and specific populations.
