Penicillin Allergy Evaluation
Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. evaluates and treats penicillin allergy in children and adults at our New Jersey offices.
Book an AppointmentWhat Is Penicillin Allergy
Penicillin has been used to treat bacterial infections for many years. It remains one of the most common antibiotics prescribed to children and adults. Many people are told at some point in their life that they are allergic to penicillin, often based on a reaction that occurred during childhood.
A large number of people who carry a penicillin allergy label are not truly allergic. Reactions recorded years earlier may have been caused by the underlying illness rather than the medication, or the original allergy may no longer be present. An accurate diagnosis matters because an unconfirmed allergy label can limit which antibiotics a patient is offered.
Penicillin belongs to a family of antibiotics that includes other drugs with a related chemical structure. Cross-reactivity means a person allergic to penicillin may also react to some related antibiotics, such as certain cephalosporins. Our office reviews a patient's history and testing results to clarify which antibiotics are safe to use.
Symptoms
Penicillin allergy symptoms range from mild skin reactions to severe, life-threatening reactions. Both children and adults should be evaluated when a reaction occurs.
Rashes
Red, flat, or raised patches on the skin that can appear on the trunk, arms, or legs.
Hives
Raised, itchy welts that may move around the body and change shape over hours.
Swelling
Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat, sometimes accompanied by itching.
Anaphylaxis
A severe, whole-body reaction that can include difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, and dizziness. This is a medical emergency.
Diagnosis
Our office uses several methods to evaluate whether a patient has a true penicillin allergy or can safely tolerate the medication.
Skin Testing
A small amount of penicillin extract is placed on or under the skin to check for a reaction.
Graded Oral Challenge
A patient is given penicillin in small, increasing doses under observation to see if a reaction occurs.
Blood Testing
A blood sample can help evaluate whether a true allergy is present or whether the drug can be tolerated.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the result of testing and the medical needs of the patient.
Alternative Antibiotics
When a true allergy is confirmed, another class of antibiotic is chosen to treat the infection.
Desensitization
If penicillin is medically necessary and no alternative is appropriate, desensitization can allow temporary use under close medical supervision.
Emergency Action Plan
Patients with a confirmed allergy receive a written plan describing what to do if a reaction occurs.
What To Bring
Preparing these items ahead of time helps your visit go smoothly.
Insurance Card
Bring your current insurance card to your appointment.
Current Medication List
List all medications, supplements, and prior antibiotics you have taken.
Referral, If Required
Bring a referral from your primary care provider if your insurance plan requires one.
New patient forms can be completed before your visit to save time in the office.
View Patient FormsSchedule a Penicillin Allergy Evaluation
Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. sees children and adults for penicillin allergy testing and treatment at four New Jersey offices, with Saturday hours available.