The Ineffectiveness of Antibiotic Skin Testing

Antibiotic hypersensitivity remains a major concern in clinical practice. Historically, intradermal or subcutaneous  tests were performed before antibiotic administration to predict allergic reactions. However, contemporary evidence demonstrates that such practices lack diagnostic accuracy and may introduce significant risks. Consequently, European clinical guidelines no longer recommend routine antibiotic skin testing except in specific, evidence-based contexts. This article reviews the scientific rationale behind the abandonment of pre-antibiotic tests and discusses modern approaches to managing antibiotic hypersensitivity.