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Updated: May 8, 2026
10:27
Recognition of Epidermal Transglutaminase by IgA and Tissue Transglutaminase 2 Antibodies in a Rare Case of Rhesus Dermatitis
Published on: December 15, 2011
Contact dermatitis induced by glatiramer acetate
S Haltmeier1, M Yildiz, S Müller
1Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Cantonal Hospital of St Gallen, Switzerland. susannehaltmeier@gmx.net
Multiple Sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England)
|July 7, 2011
Summary
Glatiramer acetate injections can cause contact dermatitis, a rare side effect. This case study highlights a positive lymphocyte transformation test confirming the allergy, leading to drug cessation and topical steroid treatment.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Neurology
Background:
- Glatiramer acetate is an immunomodulatory therapy for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
- It is generally considered safe with a mild side effect profile.
Observation:
- A 39-year-old woman developed contact dermatitis after two months of glatiramer acetate injections.
- The patient experienced a severe skin reaction necessitating drug discontinuation.
Findings:
- Diagnostic tests, including prick/scratch testing, were negative.
- A lymphocyte transformation test showed a strong positive reaction to glatiramer acetate, confirming causality.
- This represents the first reported case of glatiramer acetate-induced contact dermatitis.
Implications:
- Contact dermatitis is a potential, albeit rare, adverse reaction to glatiramer acetate.
- Accurate diagnosis requires specific immunological testing like the lymphocyte transformation test.
- Management involves drug withdrawal and symptomatic treatment with topical corticosteroids.
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