Cephalosporin allergic reaction

If there is no good previous history for PCN or Cephalosporin allergies, give the

Cephalosporin.

If the history is suggestive for non-anaphylactic reaction to PCN or Cephalosporin, perform Cephalosporin graded challenge.

If the history is confirmative for anaphylaxis to PCN or Cephalosporin, use an alternative or perform Cephalosporin desensitization.

Graded challenge (provocation challenge): give 1/1000th to 1/10th of the therapeutic dose in a 30 minutes’ interval till reach the recommended dose.

Desensitization refers to a process of giving a medication in a controlled and gradual manner, which allows the person to tolerate it temporarily without an allergic reaction. Several protocols are available for certain medications.