Presentation and natural history of progestogen hypersensitivity

Abstract

Objective: To review the published medical literature on the clinical presentation, risk factors, and natural history of hypersensitivity reactions to progestogens.

Data sources: Through the use of PubMed, we conducted a review of allergy, dermatology, and obstetric literature for cases and case series of patients with hypersensitivity reactions to exogenous or endogenous progestogens. There are no longitudinal, prospective studies related to progestogen hypersensitivity.

Study selections: Publications were selected that described cases that were clinically consistent with progesterone hypersensitivity and positive test results or clear symptoms with exposure to progestogens to confirm the diagnosis.

Results: Progestogen hypersensitivity symptoms can be triggered by endogenous progesterone or exogenous progestins used for contraception or fertility treatments. Symptoms are varied and include dermatitis, urticaria, asthma, and anaphylaxis.

Conclusion: Although the medical literature on progestogen hypersensitivity is limited to case reports and small case series, significant heterogeneity exists in clinical presentation among patients.