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Published on: January 7, 2019
Penicillin-sensitivity reactions in Taiwan
Abstract:
In view of the increasing interest being shown throughout the world in untoward reactions following penicillin administration, a detailed study has been made of such reactions in Taiwan between October 1951 and May 1955. During this period, 106 reactions were recorded, of which 74 were anaphylactic (12 fatal, 19 severe and 43 less severe) and 32 were urticarial.The authors point out that the consumption of penicillin is very heavy in Taiwan, which can be considered "a potentially penicillin-sensitized country". The great majority of anaphylactic cases for which information is available are known to have received penicillin before the injection which caused the reaction, and only one of those who died (a 7-month-old boy) is known not to have had the drug before. All those in the urticarial group for whom there is information reacted within 24 hours of receiving penicillin. The authors conclude that, since this is too short a time for the production of antibodies, the persons concerned were already sensitized by previous penicillin treatment.
Insights
Penicillin reactions are a global concern. In Taiwan, a study found most anaphylactic reactions occurred in patients previously treated with penicillin, indicating prior sensitization.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Immunology
Background:
- Increasing global interest in adverse drug reactions.
- Penicillin is widely used, leading to potential widespread sensitization.
- Previous studies on penicillin reactions are limited in certain regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the incidence and characteristics of adverse reactions to penicillin in Taiwan.
- To investigate the role of prior penicillin exposure in reaction development.
- To assess the types and severity of penicillin-induced reactions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of recorded penicillin reactions.
- Data collection from October 1951 to May 1955 in Taiwan.
- Categorization of reactions into anaphylactic and urticarial types, noting severity and fatality.
Main Results:
- 106 penicillin reactions were recorded: 74 anaphylactic (12 fatal) and 32 urticarial.
- High penicillin consumption in Taiwan suggests a "penicillin-sensitized country."
- Most anaphylactic cases and all urticarial cases with known history had prior penicillin exposure.
Conclusions:
- Prior penicillin exposure is strongly linked to subsequent adverse reactions.
- Rapid onset of urticarial reactions suggests pre-existing sensitization.
- Understanding sensitization patterns is crucial for managing penicillin safety.
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