Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 4/17/2010

Question
On April 9th, I arrived at UCLA outpatient OR to have a cyst removed from vocal cord. Surgeon is Chief of Head & Neck @UCLA. Today is day 8 since surgery. I have been taking Keflex & Cortisone Med Pak since eve of operation. Initital days at home experienced extreme pain in joints underarms, groin, and general malaise. Phone to request OR notes, but also must mention that I have been itching for several days, but the "rash" is not really visible to eyes. Itching on tops of feet, hands, and back. Phoned Dr. Berke who thought I might be allergic to the paralyzing med use during surgery, and to stop all meds. Tonight, I have finally taken Benadryl, which has helped.Please comment

Answer
The joint pain, etc is PROBABLY due to the paralyzing agent (Succinylcholine) but it is NOT an allergic reaction. This is a common finding based on how the drug works. I am, of course, assuming this is the agent you got. As far as the itching, this may or may not be an allergic reaction. I have no way to tell but before you ascribe it to that, see an allergist and get tested. Most likely it is the Keflex (assuming you are taking no other drugs).

Ronald Levy. MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston