Localized erythema multiforme-like contact dermatitis from a knee brace.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Allergology
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is an immune response to external substances.
• Knee braces are frequently used postoperatively, especially after anterior cruciate ligament repair.
• Erythema multiforme-like lesions are a less common presentation of ACD.

Observation:

• A 47-year-old woman presented with numerous erythema multiforme-like lesions on her knee.
• The lesions appeared after wearing a Townsend Rebel knee brace post-anterior cruciate ligament repair.
• No prior reports of ACD associated with this specific knee brace were found.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with allergic contact dermatitis to the knee brace.
• Treatment included topical triamcinolone, cetirizine, and diphenhydramine.
• Lesions resolved completely following treatment and brace discontinuation.

Implications:

• This case expands the known spectrum of reactions to orthopedic devices.
• Highlights the importance of considering ACD in patients with postoperative rashes.
• Further reports are needed to understand the prevalence and allergens in knee brace-induced ACD.