While a history of penicillin allergy is self-reported by approximately 6-25% of patients, most are able to tolerate penicillin. In those with penicillin allergy, it may remit over time. Patients deemed ‘penicillin-allergic’ are more likely to: be treated with broad-spectrum alternative antibiotics (such as vancomycin, quinolones and clindamycin); experience longer hospital stays; and develop complications such as infections with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus, and Clostridium difficile. IgE-mediated penicillin allergy can be evaluated through skin testing or graded oral challenge. For more information:
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