Cephalosporin antibiotics are commonly used but can result in allergic reactions and anaphylaxis. There is no clear diagnostic approach for cephalosporin-allergic patients, and guidance for the use of other antibiotics in allergic patients is based on side chain chemical similarity and limited skin testing evidence. This project includes a clinical trial and mechanistic studies to optimize the approach to cephalosporin allergy and advance future diagnostics.
Age 18-70 years old.
Reaction history consistent with a potential immediate hypersensitivity reaction (pruritus, urticaria, erythema, angioedema, bronchospasm, wheezing, shortness of breath, anaphylaxis, or hypotension) to cefazolin, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, cefepime, cephalexin, cefaclor, cefadroxil, cefuroxime, cefpodoxime, cefdinir, or cefixime.
English speaking or non-English speaking with translation services available.
Severe concomitant medical condition (e.g., unstable coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, poorly controlled asthma, chronic renal failure, cirrhosis, or end-stage liver disease.)
History of Clostridioides difficile infection
Chronic spontaneous urticaria or systemic mastocytosis
Incident reaction required cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Massachusetts General Hospital
Lead sponsor
Mayo Clinic
Sponsor institution
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Collaborator