Is there an allergy doctor near me in Elgin who tests for penicillin allergy?

Is there an allergy doctor near me in Elgin who tests for penicillin allergy?

Did you know that the vast majority of people who believe they have a penicillin allergy, actually test negative and can safely take it and related drugs? This can lead to overuse of more expensive broad spectrum antibiotics result in an increase in antibiotic resistance.

Are you wondering if there is an allergy doctor near me in Elgin who can make an accurate determination? Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates offers penicillin allergy tests.

What is penicillin?

The penicillin family of antibiotics includes more than 15 related drugs, prescribed to treat bacterial infections. Penicillin is one of the most commonly used antibiotics in the world.

Penicillin allergies

While about 10 percent of the population claims to have a penicillin allergy, the majority are not truly allergic. Most people who have a penicillin allergy lose it over time.

Penicillin allergy testing

Penicillin allergy tests are the only way to determine if you are allergic to the drug. During the skin test, several different dilutions are applied, and the area is monitored for signs of reaction. If the test is negative, chances are the allergy no longer exists. An oral drug challenge, where a small dose of penicillin is given, can confirm if it is safe to use the antibiotic.

Treatment for symptoms of allergic reaction to penicillin

  • Epinephrine Injection – Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life threatening allergic reaction. It requires immediate treatment with an epinephrine injection along with immediate medical care.
  • Antihistamines – Over the counter antihistamines such as Benadryl can block the chemicals triggered during an allergic reaction.
  • Corticosteroids – These can be used to treat inflammation that accompanies the reaction

If you live near Elgin and think you may have a penicillin allergy, or would like to find out if you’ve lost a previously diagnosed allergy, call us today to schedule an appointment.

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Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates

Meredith Cirrincione | Dr. Noga Askenazi

Amy Schack, a distinguished board-certified Physician Associate, brings a wealth of expertise to patient care. Specializing in allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, asthma, and rashes, Amy is renowned for her commitment to excellence and compassionate approach. With a background in immediate care and orthopedics, she holds a Master's in Physician Assistant studies from Midwestern University and a Bachelor of Science from Northern Illinois University. A member of esteemed professional associations, including the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Association of PAs in Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, Amy Schack instills confidence, ensuring you can trust her unwavering dedication to your health and well-being.


Meredith Cirrincione is a board certified Physician Assistant and specializes in treating allergies, with a focus on asthma, rashes, environmental allergies, chemical and food allergies. She holds a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from The Chicago Medical School - Rosalind Franklin University of Health Sciences. She is a Fellow member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, the Illinois Academy of Physician Assistants, and the Association of PAs in Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. She likes to approach things holistically. She is a strong patient advocate and adored by her patients. She enjoys singing, reading, cooking, and the great outdoors.


Dr. Noga Askenazi is a nationally recognized asthma and allergy specialist who is board certified in pediatric and adult allergy. Her areas of special interest are innovative treatment of rashes, sinusitis, food allergies, asthma and immune disorders. She was past President of the ISAAI (Illinois Society of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology), works on state and national committees for advancement of the allergy field and is a consultant for Advocate, Ascension Health, Northwestern amongst other health care systems. Her joy is helping patients reach their goals after together determining best treatments. Her staff and patients are a chosen family, and she invests in their happiness. She enjoys gardening, biking and cooking to good music.