Penicillin Allergy Testing in Alexandria, VA

Penicillin allergy testing is available at Metropolitan ENT. Penicillin allergy is a major problem, resulting in millions of patients being denied penicillin treatment and unable to take a large number of antibiotics related to penicillin.

As a result, patients often have to take stronger, broader spectrum antibiotics, with more potential adverse effects. Additionally, the use of the broader spectrum antibiotics leads to increased resistance, meaning that when they are needed for future infections, they may not work. Resistance to antibiotics in our communities is a growing problem, so the ability to use penicillin antibiotics remains important.

Fortunately, most patients with a history of possible reactions to penicillin can safely take them because many patients are not truly allergic when skin tested, and many patients who were truly allergic as a child will out-grow the allergy as they age.

It’s important to get tested so you will know for sure. Penicillin is a safe, effective treatment option that is much less expensive than alternative antibiotics. Call our office today to schedule your testing appointment at (703) 313-7700.

Penicillin allergy is the most commonly reported drug allergy in the United States. However, studies show that approximately 85% of patients who believe they are allergic to penicillin will have negative skin test results and can safely receive penicillin and related antibiotics. Accurate testing can open the door to safer, more effective, and affordable treatment options.

Who Should Be Tested

Anyone with a history of a reaction to a penicillin antibiotic or those currently restricted from certain antibiotics due to allergy concerns should be tested. Early testing—before illness or hospitalization—is highly recommended to ensure optimal treatment options when needed.

Why Get Tested Now

• Avoid Future Complications: Knowing your true allergy status can make hospital visits or urgent care treatments more efficient and cost-effective.
• Better Treatment Options: Access to penicillin-based antibiotics allows for more targeted treatment with fewer side effects.

Preparing for the Test Before your appointment

• Inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, current medications, and penicillin allergy history.
• Discontinue all antihistamines at least seven days before testing to ensure accurate results.

What to Expect During Testing Penicillin skin testing includes:

1. Skin Prick Tests: Using PRE-PEN, Penicillin-G, and both positive and negative controls.
2. Observation: We examine test sites for any reactions.
3. Intradermal Testing: If initial tests are negative, intradermal tests with the same substances are performed.
4. Oral Challenge: If intradermal tests are also negative, a final oral challenge confirms your allergy status.

The entire process takes about 60 to 90 minutes.

Benefits of Accurate Testing

• Access to Better Treatments: Avoid unnecessary denial of penicillin, which is often more effective with fewer side effects.
• Combat Drug Resistance: Reduce the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, lowering the risk of drug-resistant bacteria.
• Lower Medication Costs: Penicillin alternatives are frequently more expensive—testing can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Contraindications to testing is not recommended for:

• Patients with severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, as testing may reactivate the condition.
• Patients with a history of anaphylaxis when given penicillin.

Don’t let a misdiagnosed penicillin allergy limit your treatment options. Schedule your penicillin allergy test today and gain confidence in your healthcare decisions.