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Updated: Aug 6, 2026
10:22
Basophil Activation Test for Investigation of IgE-Mediated Mechanisms in Drug Hypersensitivity
Published on: September 16, 2011
Patients with drug reactions -- is it worth testing?
1Department of Dermatology, Division of Immunology, Allergy and Infectious Diseases (DIAID, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
Allergy
|July 27, 2006
Summary
Verifying drug reactions through standardized testing, including drug provocation tests (DPTs), provides clear recommendations for most patients. This approach safely guides future medication choices and avoids unnecessary expensive alternatives.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Immunology
- Allergy Diagnostics
- Pharmacovigilance
Background:
- European guidelines recommend verifying drug reactions to avoid costly alternative medications.
- The study assesses the safety and efficacy of a structured drug reaction testing procedure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the risk-benefit ratio of a standardized diagnostic work-up for patients with suspected drug reactions.
- To determine the utility of drug provocation testing (DPT) in allergy clinics.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 291 patients (325 cases) with reported drug reactions from January 2003 to June 2004.
- Standardized work-up included detailed history, skin testing, specific IgE, and, if needed, drug provocation testing (DPT).
Main Results:
- Confirmed drug reaction association in 100 cases, excluded in 157.
- 14 of 104 DPTs were positive, all managed without difficulty; 68 cases remained inconclusive.
- 82.1% of patients received clear recommendations regarding drug tolerability or avoidance.
Conclusions:
- A standardized work-up, including DPTs, provides clear advice for most patients regarding drug reactions.
- This diagnostic approach facilitates safe medication choices and recommendations for alternative regimens.
- The procedure carries a low risk of mild side effects, making it a valuable tool in allergy management.
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