Abacavir Hypersensitivity C5768819
A potentially serious immune reaction to the HIV drug abacavir. Genetic testing is required before starting treatment to identify those at risk of this reaction.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- D89.9
- ICD-11
- 3A00.0
- Body system
- immunologic
- Severity
- severe
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Fever
High fever, typically above 38°C (100.4°F), often accompanied by chills and sweating.
Seek immediate medical attention if fever develops within first 6 weeks of starting abacavir, as this may indicate a hypersensitivity reaction.
Skin Rash
Maculopapular rash that often starts on the trunk and may spread to extremities, typically appearing 5-10 days after starting medication.
Discontinue abacavir immediately and seek urgent medical care if a rash develops, as this can progress to severe or life-threatening reactions.
Shortness of Breath
Difficulty breathing or feeling breathless, which may indicate progression to severe hypersensitivity reaction.
Seek emergency medical care immediately if experiencing difficulty breathing, as this can be life-threatening.
Nausea
(gastrointestinal)Feeling of sickness with an urge to vomit, often persistent and not relieved by usual antiemetic measures.
Frequency: 50-60% of patients
Vomiting
(gastrointestinal)Forceful expulsion of stomach contents, often recurrent and may lead to dehydration.
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Fatigue
(constitutional)Extreme tiredness and lack of energy that interferes with daily activities and does not improve with rest.
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Headache
(neurologic)Persistent or severe headache that may be throbbing or pressure-like in nature.
Frequency: 30-40% of patients
Muscle Pain
(musculoskeletal)Generalized muscle aches and pains, often described as soreness or tenderness in multiple muscle groups.
Frequency: 30-40% of patients
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Combination drug regimen with regular assessment
Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
Immediate abacavir discontinuation
Permanent cessation of abacavir-containing products with documentation in medical records to prevent future exposure.
Alternative antiretroviral regimen
Switching to a different antiretroviral class such as integrase inhibitors or NNRTIs to maintain HIV suppression without abacavir.
Additional treatment options
Corticosteroid therapy for severe reactions
Short-course systemic corticosteroids to manage severe hypersensitivity manifestations such as systemic inflammatory response.
medicationPatient education and avoidance counseling
Comprehensive education on recognizing hypersensitivity symptoms and avoiding all abacavir-containing medications.
lifestyleRechallenge protocol with HLA-B*5701 testing
If hypersensitivity was mild, confirm HLA-B*5701 negative status before considering any future abacavir use under close supervision.
monitoringWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
See a doctor within 24 hours
Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.
Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Abacavir Hypersensitivity C5768819?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
US Department of Health and Human Services. Guidelines for the Use of Antiretroviral Agents in Adults and Adolescents Living with HIV. DHHS Panel on Antiretroviral Guidelines for Adults and Adolescents. 2024.
World Health Organization. Consolidated Guidelines on HIV Prevention, Testing, Treatment, Service Delivery and Monitoring. 2021.
Chaponda M, Pirmohamed M. Hypersensitivity reactions to HIV drugs. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2012;12(4):371-380.
Mallal S, Phillips E, Carosi G, et al. HLA-B*5701 screening for hypersensitivity to abacavir. N Engl J Med. 2008;358(6):568-579.
Panel on Antiretroviral Guidelines for Adults and Adolescents. Recommendations for HLA-B*5701 testing prior to initiation of abacavir. DHHS. Updated 2023.
Hughes CA, Foisy M, Tseng A. Abacavir hypersensitivity: a review of the literature. Ann Pharmacother. 2008;42(3):448-453.
Nightingale S, Scheepers C, Proudfoot J, et al. HLA-B*5701 and abacavir hypersensitivity in diverse populations: systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Immunogenet. 2018;45(2):95-103.
European AIDS Clinical Society. EACS Guidelines Version 11.0. 2021. Section on HLA-B*5701 testing.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Abacavir Hypersensitivity C5768819. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy