Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
About 20 years ago, I experienced serum sickness from Penicillin, with symptoms including a high fever, chills, rash, and arthritis.
Would it be worthwhile to undergo Penicillin allergy testing today to determine whether I still have this allergy?
Please suggest.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Penicillin and related compounds are still frequently used as antibiotics for various purposes. Although the newer versions are less likely to cause serious allergic reactions, it is still beneficial to know your allergy status. You can undergo testing for a Penicillin allergy, which would be advantageous.
I hope this helps.
Thank you and take care.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for the reply.
My main concern is if the Penicillin skin test reveals that I do not have an allergy, is it still possible to experience serum sickness again? Is it worthwhile to take a second test? What are the chances that I could still get serum sickness from Penicillin after 20 years?
Please advise.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Allergy skin prick tests do not typically rule out Penicillin-induced serum sickness or serum sickness-like reactions. This is because skin tests are generally effective at detecting IgE (immunoglobulin E)-mediated histaminergic allergic reactions, rather than complex reactions like serum sickness. Even food allergies are not reliably diagnosed by skin prick tests. Your chances of experiencing serum sickness from Penicillin remain the same as they were 20 years ago, but if you do react again, it could be more severe than before. Given these considerations, I would recommend avoiding Penicillin if possible. If Penicillin use is unavoidable, we should anticipate a possible reaction and be prepared to manage it.
I hope this helps.
Thank you and take care.
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Answered byDr. Shyam Kalyan N
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
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