Hapten resistant dextran induced ARDS reaction following intracoronary stent deployment.

A case of dextran induced adult respiratory distress syndrome is used to illustrate the most serious complication of dextran usage during intracoronary stent placement. This reaction occurred despite premedication with the hapten dextran 1. Mechanisms of dextran induced complications are discussed. A mechanism for hapten resistant dextran reactions is postulated. Suggestions to prevent such reactions are made.