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Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
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Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses

Published on: August 30, 2018

Adverse reactions to antimicrobial therapy

K J Wightman

    Canadian Medical Association Journal
    |October 16, 1965
    PubMed

    Insights

    Adverse reactions to antimicrobial agents stem from toxic, sensitivity, or biological effects. Patient susceptibility varies due to genetics, immunity, environment, or disease, impacting diverse organs.

    Area of Science:

    • Pharmacology and Toxicology
    • Immunology
    • Microbiology

    Background:

    • Adverse reactions to antimicrobial agents are a significant clinical concern.
    • These reactions manifest as toxic effects, hypersensitivity, or alterations in the body's natural microbial flora.
    • Patient variability in susceptibility complicates predicting and managing these reactions.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To elucidate the multifaceted nature of adverse reactions to antimicrobial agents.
    • To explore the underlying mechanisms contributing to patient susceptibility.
    • To highlight the potential for reducing reaction incidence with further research.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of existing literature on antimicrobial-induced adverse events.
    • Analysis of factors influencing patient susceptibility, including genetic, immunologic, environmental, and disease-related aspects.
    • Examination of the range of organ systems affected by antimicrobial agents.

    Main Results:

    • Adverse reactions are categorized into toxic, sensitivity (antigen-antibody), and biological (microflora alteration) effects.
    • Patient susceptibility is influenced by genetic makeup, immune status, environment, and concurrent diseases.
    • Antimicrobial agents can cause dose-dependent tissue damage or idiosyncratic reactions, affecting nearly any organ.

    Conclusions:

    • Understanding the diverse mechanisms of antimicrobial adverse reactions is crucial.
    • Individual patient factors significantly modulate the risk and type of reactions.
    • Further research into specific mechanisms is essential for developing strategies to minimize adverse events.

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