Penicillin antibiotics are celebrated for their extensive bactericidal activity and overall safety, making them the most commonly prescribed antibiotics worldwide. However, the mislabeling of penicillin allergies poses a significant public health issue, especially in Mainland China. Current PST practices in the region have resulted in a concerning number of falsely labeled penicillin “allergies”. In an interview with Omnihealth Practice, Professor Philip H Li discussed a recent study from his team that critically examined the differences in PST practices between local and national settings. The study highlighted how non-evidence-based testing methods contribute to the high prevalence of incorrect penicillin allergy labels. Prof. Li also detailed the variations in testing practices, their public health implications, and potential strategies for reforming penicillin allergy management in China.

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare, yet potentially life-threatening, inheritable disease characterized by episodic attacks of cutaneous and submucosal swelling. Unfortunately, the adoption and implementation of international guidelines established in Asia-Pacific (AP) populations remains limited due to a lack of expertise, infrastructure, public awareness, and access. In an interview with Omnihealth Practice, Professor Philip Li, Board Director of the Asia Pacific Association of Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology (APAAACI) and lead author of a recently published epidemiologic study of HAE in the AP region, outlined the regional epidemiologic characteristics of HAE, current challenges and priority areas that require attention to optimize HAE management in the AP region. He also shared insights regarding the most recent Hong Kong-Macau Severe Hives and Angioedema Referral Pathway (SHARP) which offers guidance on patient stratification and referral strategies in patients with urticaria.