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. 2016 Nov 29:12:59.
doi: 10.1186/s13223-016-0165-6. eCollection 2016.

Prevalence of beta-lactam allergy: a retrospective chart review of drug allergy assessment in a predominantly pediatric population

Elissa M Abrams  1 , Andrew Wakeman  2 , Tom V Gerstner  1 , Richard J Warrington  3 , Alexander G Singer  4
Affiliations

Prevalence of beta-lactam allergy: a retrospective chart review of drug allergy assessment in a predominantly pediatric population

Elissa M Abrams et al. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol. .

Abstract

Background: Research suggests that 90% of patients labeled beta-lactam allergic are able to tolerate penicillins following further assessment. This study aims to define and describe the frequency of true beta-lactam allergy following allergy patient evaluation in a predominantly pediatric population.

Methods: 306 primary care patients referred between January 2010 and June 2015 were assessed for a suspected beta-lactam allergy. Patient demographics, history and test results were extracted from electronic medical records. Testing performed was based on specialist recommendation following review of patient history.

Results: 34% of the study participants had intradermal testing. Oral challenge was given to 96.7% of the sample. 96% of patients with a prior history of beta-lactam allergy were advised that they could re-introduce beta-lactam antibiotics following evaluation.

Conclusions: Among patients with a documented beta-lactam allergy or a recent history of a reaction there is a low rate of 'true' beta-lactam allergy. Consistent evaluation of beta-lactam antibiotic allergies can reduce rates of broad spectrum antibiotic prescribing, among other harmful consequences.

Keywords: Anaphylaxis; Beta-lactam allergy; Drug allergy, adverse drug reaction.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Inclusion criteria
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Patient evaluation
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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