Management of drug hypersensitivity in the pediatric population

Abstract

Several recent studies confirmed that drug allergy in children is over diagnosed, which is a major public health problem, and results in use of alternative drugs, increasing resistance and health costs. Areas covered: Articles in English with data on drug hypersensitivity in children were identified by searching the databases of MEDLINE (National Library of Medicine) from 1990 till 2016. Expert commentary: It is crucial to make a precise diagnosis with performing a complete allergy work-up based on carefully selected diagnostic tests depending on whether an immediate or a non-immediate reaction is suspected. The drug provocation test remains the gold standard in diagnostic drug hypersensitivity in children.

Keywords: Allergy; children; drug hypersensitivity; drug provocation tests; immediate reactions; non-immediate reactions; non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; non-β-lactam antibiotics; skin tests; β-lactam antibiotics.