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Penicillin allergy and cellulitis — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyInfectionsPenicillin allergy and cellulitisGPhC CRA

A patient with cellulitis is prescribed flucloxacillin. The PMR records previous immediate facial swelling and wheeze after amoxicillin. The patient confirms this history. What is the most appropriate alternative?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — Contact the prescriber to request a non-penicillin antibiotic choice

Immediate swelling and wheeze suggest a potentially serious IgE-mediated penicillin allergy. Flucloxacillin is a penicillin and should be avoided unless allergy assessment indicates otherwise. The prescriber should choose an appropriate alternative based on infection severity and local guidance. Topical treatment is inadequate for spreading cellulitis.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS