ANAPHYLAXIS WITH BETA-LACTAMS AND NON-STEROIDAL ANTI INFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDs)
Pınar Şahin1 Mehmet Geyik2
1Ege University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Immunology and Allergic Diseases, İzmir, Türkiye
2Hatay Training and Research Hospital, Department of Pediatric Immunology and Allergic Diseases, Hatay, Türkiye
Şahin P, Geyik M. Anaphylaxis with Beta-Lactams and Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). In: Harmancı K, editor. Childhood Anaphylaxis: New Developments in Diagnosis and Treatment. 1st ed. Ankara: Türkiye Klinikleri; 2025. p.79-103.
ABSTRACT
Anaphylaxis is a rapid, multisystem, and potentially fatal hypersensitivity reaction that represents a medical emergency, especially in pediatric cases. While food allergens remain the leading cause of anaphylaxis in children, an increasing number of cases are now linked to medications, with beta-lactam antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) among the most frequently implicated. A comprehensive understanding of these drug-induced reactions—including their underlying immunological mechanisms and clinical nuances—is crucial for prompt recognition and management.
Beta-lactam antibiotics represent the most common drug class associated with pediatric anaphylaxis. The immunologic basis of these reactions is primarily related to the beta-lactam ring, which can stimulate classic IgE-mediated hypersensitivity. Clinical symptoms typically manifest rapidly—within minutes to an hour—and may include urticaria, facial or peripheral angioedema, bronchospasm, hypotension, and gastrointestinal complaints. Diagnosis hinges on clinical context and is supported by skin prick or intradermal testing, and in some instances, serum-specific IgE analysis. Management requires immediate cessation of the suspected drug, intramuscular epinephrine as first-line therapy, and subsequent strict avoidance. Desensitization can be implemented in controlled healthcare settings for patients who require beta-lactam therapy without suitable alternatives.
NSAID-induced anaphylaxis in children presents a more varied clinical spectrum and arises from both immunologic and non-immunologic mechanisms. The most common pathway is Cyclooxygenase (COX)-1inhibition, especially in children with pre-existing chronic urticaria or during viral illnesses. Reactions can range from isolated cutaneous symptoms to full systemic anaphylaxis. Unlike beta-lactam allergies, standardized skin or laboratory tests to confirm NSAID hypersensitivity do not exist, making diagnosis dependent on a clear temporal relationship and clinical judgment. If necessary, oral drug provocation remains the gold standard diagnostic method. Treatment includes the complete avoidance of the implicated NSAID, comprehensive education for families, and the selection of safe alternatives such as paracetamol or COX-2 selective inhibitors. Desensitization or may be considered in rare, unavoidable cases.
This chapter offers a comprehensive overview of beta-lactam and NSAID-induced anaphylaxis in the pediatric population, highlighting pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical recognition, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic strategies. Increased awareness and personalized management protocols are crucial for improving outcomes and preventing recurrence in children with drug-induced anaphylaxis.
Keywords: Anaphylaxis; Beta-lactam antibiotics; Non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); Drug hypersensitivity; Child; Drug allergy
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Referanslar
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