Penicillin was the world's first mass-produced drug that could clear a bacterial infection, and today several antibiotics are in the penicillin class, allowing the drug to save countless lives. Some patients may develop adverse reactions to penicillin, but less than 1% of population is dangerously allergic to the drug. If you have been told that you are allergic to this antibiotic, it may be time for a re-evaluation.
Studies have found that out of the 10% of patients who report being allergic to penicillin, less than 1% truly are. And approximately 80% of those who report an allergic reaction to the medication grow out of their sensitivity within 10 years. Retesting for a penicillin allergy yields a 96% negative outcome, and some experts hope this can help overcome the spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria because of overtreatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics.
Skin testing is the most used method for penicillin allergy testing and can help identify individuals who are truly allergic. A skin prick test can be administered at your doctor's office, precise account of your penicillin allergy.
Here are some other methods of testing:
In addition to skin and blood testing, patch allergy testing, and oral allergy testing are also used
to diagnose drug allergies. Patch allergy testing involves applying a small amount of the suspected allergen to a patch, which is then placed on the skin for 48 hours. If a reaction occurs, it can indicate an allergy to the substance. Patch testing is typically used for diagnosing allergies to topical medications, such as creams or ointments.
Oral allergy testing involves giving the patient a small amount of the suspected allergen to
swallow, and then monitoring for any adverse reactions. This method is typically used for diagnosing food allergies.
However, it is important to note that both patch and oral allergy testing have limitations and may produce false-positive or false-negative results. Therefore, it is important to work with an
experienced allergist or immunologist who can interpret the results of these tests in the context of a patient's medical history and symptoms. In sparse cases, a person may still develop an
allergic reaction to penicillin even after a negative result. Therefore, it is important for
individuals who have a history of penicillin allergy to inform their healthcare providers and to avoid penicillin whenever possible.
At The Barranco ENT Clinic, we are committed to providing the highest quality care for our patients. We invite you to schedule an appointment with our providers regarding ear, nose, and throat related health concerns.
