Korean J Med.  2014 Dec;87(6):659-664. 10.3904/kjm.2014.87.6.659.

Hypersensitivity to Aspirin and Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs

• Kim CW

• KMID: 2269360
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3904/kjm.2014.87.6.659

Abstract

Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most widely used medications, based on their antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects. However, both aspirin and NSAIDs cause hypersensitivity reactions through immunologic as well as non-immunologic mechanisms. Except for the rare single-NSAID-induced reaction, most hypersensitivity reactions show cross-reactive features to other NSAIDs regardless of their chemical structure. An accurate correct medical history is the most important diagnostic approach, whereas the roles of blood and skin tests are limited in the majority of cases of NSAIDs hypersensitivity. Although able to confirm the presence of a hypersensitivity reaction, an oral or bronchial provocation test should be performed only under the supervision of a skilled physician at a well-equipped institution. Avoidance of the causative NSAID and all cross-reactive NSAIDs is the cornerstone of management. Patients who require treatment with aspirin or NSAIDs can undergo aspirin desensitization. Genetic predisposition to hypersensitivity to NSAIDs have been demonstrated, but a clear understanding of the pathophysiologic and phenotypic diversity of these hypersensitivity reactions requires further studies, including functional ones.

Keyword

Aspirin; Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug; Hypersensitivity; Allergy

MeSH Terms

Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
Aspirin*
Bronchial Provocation Tests
Genetic Predisposition to Disease
Humans
Hypersensitivity*
Organization and Administration
Skin Tests
Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
Aspirin