Which statement best reflects current understanding of penicillin-cephalosporin cross-reactivity?

Which statement best reflects current understanding of penicillin-cephalosporin cross-reactivity?

• A. Cross-reactivity is lower than previously thought; caution with history of severe penicillin allergy; may use cephalosporins with caution or choose alternatives in severe allergies.
• B. Cross-reactivity is 50%; avoid all cephalosporins in any penicillin allergy.
• C. There is no cross-reactivity; all cephalosporins are safe in penicillin allergy.
• D. Cephalosporins are always preferred in penicillin allergy due to broad spectrum.

Answer: (A)