Nitritoid reactions: case reports, review, and recommendations for management.

OBJECTIVE

We assessed nitritoid reactions, which are a well recognized side effect of chrysotherapy that occur in roughly 5% of patients taking gold sodium thiomalate (GST).

METHODS

Between January 1996 and January 2000, 8 patients followed in our gold monitoring program at Mary Pack Arthritis Centre experienced nitritoid reactions observed by the clinic nurse. We undertook a chart review to determine the risk factors, timing, course, and outcome of nitritoid reactions.

RESULTS

Patients' ages ranged from 36 to 69 years, and 7 of 8 were women. Duration of gold therapy prior to nitritoid reactions ranged from 13 months to 13 years. Seven had previously had mucocutaneous reactions, and one experienced gold dermatitis following a nitritoid reaction. Two of 8 patients were taking angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor agents. Seven reactions were classified as mild, and one was a severe reaction with hypotension, syncope, and angina.

CONCLUSIONS

Management includes a high index of suspicion in patients experiencing nausea, flushing, or dizziness following gold injections, switching from GST to gold sodium aurothioglucose, injection in the recumbent position, and observation for 20 minutes after injections in individual patients.