Safe Administration of Octenidine in a Surgical Patient With Documented Severe Chlorhexidine Anaphylaxis: A Case Report and Review of the Current Evidence

Chlorhexidine is one of the most widely used antiseptics worldwide. Owing to its extensive use, reports of chlorhexidine allergic reactions are increasing. In cases of severe chlorhexidine anaphylaxis, the potential for cross-reactivity with other antiseptics poses a significant challenge when considering an alternative. We present a case of successful use of octenidine in a patient with confirmed chlorhexidine anaphylaxis, illustrating the low risk of systematic cross-sensitivity, as already suggested by ex vivo studies, and raising the possibility of its potential use as a reliable alternative.