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Antibiotic-Induced Anaphylaxis

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Anaphylaxis and Hypersensitivity Reactions

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Abstract

An antibiotic allergic reaction represents one of the side effects of drugs and is a daily worry for the clinician. If urticaria and maculo–papular eruptions are the most frequent manifestations, then anaphylaxis can occur. The tools allowing a definite diagnosis are validated for some antibiotics and include the following procedures: a thorough clinical history, standardized skin tests, reliable biological tests, and drug provocation tests. When properly performed in specialized centers, a firm diagnosis is often possible and safe alternative medication can be proposed. This is particularly the case for b-lactam antibiotics, considering their wide prescription and utility.

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Acknowledgement

The authors would like to thank Ms. Anna Bedbrook for the correction of the English.

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  1. Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, University Hospital of Montpellier, Montpellier, France

    Pascal Demoly

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  1. Pascal Demoly
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  2. Philippe Jean Bousquet
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  3. Antonino Romano
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Correspondence to Pascal Demoly .

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  1. Harvard Medical School, Ambulatory Center, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boyleston Street, Route 9 850, Chestnut Hill, 02467, Massachusetts, USA

    Mariana C. Castells

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Demoly, P., Bousquet, P.J., Romano, A. (2011). Antibiotic-Induced Anaphylaxis. In: Castells, M. (eds) Anaphylaxis and Hypersensitivity Reactions. Humana Press, Totowa, NJ. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-60327-951-2_10

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