Beta-lactam hypersensitivity in children: Frequency and risk factors

Abstract

Aims: To determine the frequency of an authentic β-lactam (BL) hypersensitivity (HS) amongst a large number of children and to identify clinical risk factors that predict this hypersensitivity. Methods: All children with suspected BL allergy were evaluated by skin tests (ST) with the suspected BL. A 1-day oral provocation test (OPT) was performed in children with negative ST. We defined an authentic BL-HS case if the child exhibited a positive ST or a positive OPT. Risk factors associated with BL-HS were assessed using a univariate analysis. Covariates showing a P-value 5 years) at the reaction (odds ratio = 1.11; 95% confidence interval, 1.01–1.22; P =.02) and BL administered (odds ratio = 7.7; 95% confidence interval, 2.76–21.8; P