Allergy School Report
Allergic Reactions to Drugs – From Phenotype to Genotype
19 - 21 September 2013,
Malaga, Spain
The Allergy School “Allergic reactions to drugs - From phenotype to genotype” was organised by the EAACI in collaboration with local organisers from the Allergy Unit of University Hospital of Malaga: Drs Miguel Blanca, Cristobalina Mayorga and María Jose Torres. The meeting hosted participants from around the world. The scientific program focused on specific aspects dealing with hypersensitivity reactions to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including basic and applied clinical research. This is an important issue since these drugs have become the most frequent drug involved in hypersensitivity reactions all over the world. The management of these reactions is complex, implying a thorough knowledge of the immunological basis of hypersensitivity to NSAIDs and their implications for diagnosis.
First day lectures described the clinical phenotypes involved in NSAID hypersensitivity, followed by a detailed description of the in vivo and in vitro diagnosis. On the second day, the sessions focused on the mechanisms and the pharmacogenetics of NSAID hypersensitivity. The last day was dedicated to the in vivo and in vitro evaluation and desensitisation protocols.
The Allergy School brought together some of the greatest experts in this field from all over Europe. It was a unique opportunity for young doctors to learn more on the subject and focus on key diagnostic and management tools. Both theoretical and practical activities included in the programme promoted interactive communication between clinicians just starting their practice in drug allergy and researchers with great experience in basic and clinical aspects of NSAID hypersensitivity. Congratulations to the travel grant winners (Katinka Onodi-Nagy, Semra Demýr and Nicolae Dumitrescu) and to the winners of the best abstract communication prizes (Mª Jose Barasona and Luisa Geraldes).
Finally, we would like to highlight the social programme (including a guided visit to the historic centre of Malaga). which encouraged easy and fluid interaction and communication between speakers and attendees from many different countries.
The Malaga Allergy School was a successful experience for everyone and the organisers received congratulations from many of the participants commenting on the high scientific level of the meeting, the speakers’ ability to raise interest on the topic and the warm atmosphere in which the event took place.
Lina Mayorga, María J Torres and Miguel Blanca
Allergy Unit of University Hospital of Malaga, Malaga, Spain
Last updated 21 October 2014