Antimicrobial desensitization: A review of published protocols

Abstract

Antibiotic therapy can be interrupted or delayed secondary to an 'allergic' reaction requiring desensitization to the offending agent. Published anti-infective desensitization protocols lack uniformity and scientific evaluation. Furthermore, they can be difficult to interpret and replicate in clinical practice. We reviewed desensitization protocols published from January 1966 through June 1996 in efforts to provide a single- source document to antimicrobial desensitization. For each reported class of antimicrobial, a desensitization protocol was identified or derived from these publications. We also developed a solution preparation guide to complement the desensitization protocols presented. In addition, we suggest a desensitization template that can be applied to any anti-infective agent.