Recent Updates in Understanding NSAID Hypersensitivity

Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2023 Mar;23(3):181-188. doi: 10.1007/s11882-023-01064-3. Epub 2023 Feb 9.

Abstract

Purpose of review: To provide a review of available literature regarding nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) hypersensitivity with an emphasis on more recent findings.

Recent findings: Oral provocation tests with aspirin are important for diagnosis and management in adult and pediatric populations with reported NSAID hypersensitivity. Risk of cross-reactivity to COX-2 inhibitors varies by NSAID hypersensitivity phenotype. COX-2 inhibitors are tolerated in aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease. Reported NSAID allergy is associated with a higher risk of a substance use disorder. Effective treatment of underlying chronic spontaneous urticaria can allow tolerance of NSAIDs in NSAID-exacerbated cutaneous disease. The pathophysiology, cross-reactivity, and appropriate diagnostic evaluation differ between the 5 distinct NSAID hypersensitivity phenotypes. Further research into the pathophysiology of NSAID hypersensitivity in patients with and without underlying disease is needed.

Keywords: Aspirin; COX-2 inhibitors; NSAID hypersensitivity; Oral provocation test; Urticaria.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
  • Aspirin
  • Asthma, Aspirin-Induced*
  • Cyclooxygenase 2 Inhibitors
  • Drug Hypersensitivity* / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity*
  • Urticaria* / diagnosis

Substances

  • Cyclooxygenase 2 Inhibitors
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
  • Aspirin