Läkartidningen
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Severe IgE-mediated allergic reactions to penicillins are rare but might be fatal. Because some studies demonstrated a high risk of cross-sensitivity to cephalosporins and carbapenems it has been recommended to avoid these antibiotics in patients with suspected hypersensitivity to penicillins. ⋯ The new knowledge has implications for the choice of therapy for bacterial infections in patients with a history of penicillin hypersensitivity, because alternative antibiotic regimens are often inferior to beta-lactam antibiotics. The aim of the present review is to present existing knowledge on cross-sensitivity between beta-lactams, as well as to discuss the management of patients with suspected allergic reactions to these antibiotics.