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Anaphylactic reaction to bacitracin ointment
Hyland Cronin1, Christen Mowad
1Geisinger Health System, 100 N Academy Ave, MC 14-06, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
Cutis
|April 15, 2009
Summary
A child experienced a severe allergic reaction, including hives and vomiting, after applying bacitracin ointment to a scraped elbow. Prompt epinephrine treatment resolved the anaphylaxis, highlighting a rare but serious risk of this common topical antibiotic.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Dermatology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Bacitracin ointment is a commonly used topical antibiotic for minor skin injuries.
- Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.
Observation:
- An 11-year-old boy developed anaphylactic symptoms including pruritus, diaphoresis, nausea, vomiting, pallor, and hives minutes after bacitracin ointment application.
- Symptoms rapidly progressed from the feet to the head.
Findings:
- The patient experienced a significant anaphylactic reaction attributed to bacitracin ointment.
- Immediate administration of epinephrine led to rapid symptom improvement.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for rare, severe allergic reactions to topical bacitracin.
- Healthcare providers should maintain awareness of bacitracin-induced anaphylaxis in pediatric patients.
- Prompt recognition and management of anaphylaxis are crucial for favorable outcomes.
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