Multiple antibiotic allergy syndrome.

Allergists/immunologists are commonly referred patients with histories of multiple antibiotic allergies and must determine what antibiotics they can safely use. This review covers articles published through September 2003. The history and definition of multiple antibiotic allergy syndrome are discussed. The clinical and laboratory evidence suggesting that certain individuals make allergic antibody to unrelated antibiotics is explored. A framework for dealing with this potentially vexing problem on a clinical level is developed. Areas that require additional research and development are outlined.