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What is the reason for needing a skin test before administering penicillin?

Aug 07, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
After entering the body, penicillin may be recognized by the immune system of some individuals as a foreign harmful substance, triggering the production of antibodies and causing an allergic reaction. A skin test can detect the likelihood of such a reaction in advance. The degree of penicillin allergy and the manifestations of reactions vary significantly among individuals; some may show no abnormal response upon exposure, while others may experience severe reactions. Skin testing can specifically determine whether an individual is suitable for penicillin use.

Penicillin requires a skin test, which is generally related to factors such as possible allergic reactions, significant individual variations in allergies, potentially life-threatening allergic responses, unknown risks associated with initial use, and the continued possibility of allergic reactions upon subsequent uses. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Possible allergic reactions: After entering the body, penicillin may be recognized by the immune system of some individuals as a foreign harmful substance, triggering antibody production and causing allergic reactions. Skin testing can detect such potential reactions in advance.

2. Significant individual variation in allergies: Different people may show obvious differences in their allergic response to penicillin. Some individuals may show no reaction upon exposure, while others may have severe reactions. Skin testing helps determine whether an individual is suitable for penicillin use.

3. Allergic reactions can be life-threatening: Severe penicillin allergy may lead to life-threatening symptoms such as shock and difficulty breathing. Skin testing before administration can identify risks and prevent serious consequences.

4. Unknown risks with initial use: For individuals using penicillin for the first time, it is impossible to determine whether their bodies will tolerate it. As a preliminary test method, skin testing can reduce the risk of allergic reactions during the first administration.

5. Possible allergy upon repeated use: Even if no allergic reaction occurred during previous use of penicillin, allergic reactions may still occur upon re-administration due to changes in the body's condition. Skin testing ensures safety before each administration.

A strict skin test must be conducted before using penicillin. The drug can only be administered if the skin test result is negative; if positive, an alternative drug must be selected. Close monitoring of bodily reactions is necessary during administration. If symptoms such as rash or chest tightness occur, medical staff should be notified immediately for prompt treatment. Self-medication or ignoring abnormal symptoms is strictly prohibited.

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