Clarithromycin hypersensitivity in children: Is there a link with beta-lactam hypersensitivity?

Abstract

Background: Clarithromycin hypersensitivity is reported as the most common cause of non-beta-lactam antibiotic allergy in children. Clarithromycin is frequently prescribed in cases of suspected beta-lactam hypersensitivity. Oral provocation tests stand as the gold standard to confirm drug hypersensitivity as diagnostic value of skin tests is variable. We analyzed the frequency of true clarithromycin hypersensitivity ratio and its relationship with beta-lactam allergy among children with suspected clarithromycin hypersensitivity and evaluated the diagnostic value of skin tests.