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Updated: May 29, 2026

Basophil Activation Test for Investigation of IgE-Mediated Mechanisms in Drug Hypersensitivity
Published on: September 16, 2011
Immune reactions to drugs and diagnostic agents
1Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA. shepherd@nyallergyassociates.com
Abstract:
Adverse reactions to drugs are common, but only a small percentage of these reactions results from a specific immune reaction to a drug. Over-reactivity of almost any part of the immune system can result in an immunologically mediated drug reaction; however, T cell-and immunoglobulin E-mediated reactions are the most common. The reactions are unpredictable and can involve any part of the body, although skin is most frequent. The various pathogenic mechanisms are discussed, along with diagnostic testing, factors predisposing to drug allergy, and reactions to individual drugs and therapeutic reagents.
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