Bibliometric analysis of the trends and evolution in β-lactam allergy research

Abstract

BackgroundBeta-lactams remain the most reported drug allergy globally, with the volume and diversity of related drug allergy research continuing to accumulate. Recognizing evolving research trends can help inform future directions and encourage synergistic collaborations. ObjectiveWe conducted a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of all publications relevant to beta-lactam allergy, with a focus on longitudinal publication rates, international collaborations and keyword/ trend analysis. MethodsMeta-data from all original articles, letters and reviews relevant to beta-lactam allergy on the Web of Science Core Collection up till 31-Dec-2023 were analysed. ResultsFrom 1966-2023, there were 4451 records (3536 articles, 631 reviews, 284 letters) from 78 countries. There was an exponential increase in publications, especially during the last decade, with half of all publications on beta-lactam allergy published during this time (50.6%, 2252/4452). Overall, 18.1% (805/4452) involved international co-authorships, with significant increase since the last decade (12.7% vs. 23.3%, p<0.001). The most frequent keywords, in the first published half of articles were “skin testing” (84/1919), “IgE” (57/1919) and “anaphylaxis” (49/1919); in contrast to “skin testing” (137/3351), “drug provocation test” (121/3351), “antimicrobial resistance” (120/3351) and “antimicrobial stewardship” (118/3351) in the latter. ConclusionThere has been a surge in publications, international collaboration and shifting paradigms in beta-lactam allergy research. The field has evolved beyond focusing on “in vitro tests” or “desensitization”, toward “antimicrobial stewardship”. However, there is still seems to relatively fewer collaborations with non-Western countries. Further international collaborations to harmonize delabelling strategies against the threat of mislabelled beta-lactam allergy should be encouraged.