Global patterns of drug allergy-induced fatalities: a wake-up call to prevent avoidable deaths

To identify patterns and key issues though a systematic review in order to support prevention strategies and reduce avoidable deaths related to drug-induced anaphylaxis (DAF).

DAF rate has been estimated by 0.13-0.53/106 population/year. General global trends of DAF are increasing over time, mostly occurring at healthcare settings (62%) with a similar gender distribution and an average age of 53 years. Antibiotics, anaesthetics, radio-contrast media and NSAIDs were the most frequently implicated agents. Main comorbidities were personal history of drug allergy, cardiovascular diseases and asthma. Main manifestations were cardiovascular and respiratory commitments. Use of adrenaline is mentioned in only 29% of the articles.

DAF is increasing worldwide and most cases are iatrogenic. This first systematic review of DAF identified key gaps and served as a wake-up call to prevent avoidable deaths. Phenotype at risk for DAF was represented by patients aged more than 54 years, with personal history of drug allergy/hypersensitivity with no or incomplete allergological work-up, cardiovascular disease and/or asthma with need of hospitalization and/or frequent healthcare assistance. Additional risk for those who need frequent use of intravenous antibiotics and/or undergoing surgery or image investigation with radiocontrast media.