Tag: drug allergy

Reevaluating the Approach to Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs): Is Drug Rechallenge Always Off the Table?

drugallergydetective.com

Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs), such as acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), are among the most feared drug-related complications. These conditions can result in devastating outcomes, and the conventional approach to managing SCARs emphasizes strict avoidance of the suspected culprit drug to prevent potentially fatal recurrences. But is avoidance always the only path forward? Could there be room for a more nuanced strategy in specific cases? Not All SCARs Are Created Equal SCARs represent a spectrum of disorders,…

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Understanding Aspirin and NSAID Hypersensitivity: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management

drugallergydetective.com

Introduction to Aspirin (ASA) and Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) Aspirin (ASA) and Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most widely utilized medications in the world, renowned for their efficacy in alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and lowering fever. Aspirin, extensively studied since its introduction in the late 19th century, is also acclaimed for its cardiovascular benefits, particularly in preventing heart attacks and strokes. NSAIDs, which include ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac, offer similar therapeutic effects and are indispensable in managing a range of conditions from acute injuries to long-term issues like…

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New Sequential Patch Testing for Fixed Drug Eruption (FDE) Diagnosis

drugallergydetective.com

Background Fixed drug eruption (FDE) is a cutaneous adverse drug reaction characterized by erythematous plaques or blisters that recur at the same site upon re-exposure to the causative drug. It can leave residual pigmentation and, in severe cases, may present as generalized bullous fixed drug reaction (GBFDE). Objective The study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity of a standardized allergy workup for diagnosing the cause of FDE, with an emphasis on in situ repeated open application tests (ROATs). Methods A retrospective multicenter study analyzed the allergy workup practices for FDE diagnosis…

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Drug Allergy Testing: A Comprehensive Guide

drugallergydetective.com

Available Drug Allergy Skin Tests Drug allergy skin tests play a crucial role in diagnosing potential allergic reactions to medications. Among the most common tests are the prick test, intradermal test, and patch test. Each of these tests has specific methodologies, applications, and diagnostic capabilities. The prick test, also known as a scratch test, is frequently used to identify immediate allergic reactions. During this test, a small amount of the suspected allergen is placed on the skin, usually on the forearm or back, and the skin is lightly pricked with…

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