A case report describing a suspected rivaroxaban hypersensitivity reaction in a surgical patient.

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

Rivaroxaban is an oral anticoagulant, currently licensed for use as a venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis, and recommended by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) for all patients undergoing elective hip and knee replacement surgery in the UK. We present the first case of a suspected hypersensitivity to rivaroxaban.

CASE SUMMARY

A 57-year-old man with no previous allergies underwent an uncomplicated, elective partial knee replacement, after which he was prescribed a routine 2-week course of rivaroxaban 10 mg. He developed an allergic response requiring readmission for assessment and treatment 7 days post-operatively.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

We believe this to be the first published case of hypersensitivity associated with rivaroxaban. More research is needed to determine this association. At the same time, given the growing range and increasing use of anticoagulants, particular vigilance is required regarding potential side effects so that these may be managed quickly and effectively in the early stages.