Antibiotic Allergy Clinical Update

This Clinical Update has been adapted by ASCIA, with permission, from the allergy section of the Therapeutic Guidelines for Antibiotics.

The main purpose of this document is to provide an evidence based, ‘quick reference guide’ to assist primary health care physicians including general practitioners, paediatricians and nurses, in the management of patients with antibiotic allergy. 

pdfASCIA HP Clinical Update Antibiotic Allergy 2014299.35 KB 

Contents

Note: Full Introduction and content outline shown. 

Introduction

While less than 20% of all adverse drug reactions are immune mediated, it is common for a patient to give a history of being 'allergic' to an antimicrobial, usually penicillin. If penicillin is administered to a highly allergic patient, fatal anaphylaxis can occur.

However, it is important to consider:

Hence, evaluation for drug allergy involves a risk-benefit analysis based on history, allergy test results (where available) and, if indicated, direct challenge under medical supervision.

Risk factors for the clinical expression of antibiotic allergy include:

2. Types of antibiotic hypersensitivity

2.1. IgE-mediated immediate hypersensitivity
2.2. IgE-independent reactions
2.3. Delayed reactions

3. Diagnosis of antibiotic hypersensitivity

3.1. Clinical History
3.2. Skin and blood testing
3.3. Cross reactivity

4. Management of patients reporting penicillin hypersensitivity

References 

Further Information and resources 

Content updated May 2015