Iododerma occurring during thyroid protection treatment

A patient with rheumatoid arthritis developed nodules and ulcers shortly after treatment with supersaturated potassium iodide (SSKI) drops. The SSKI was administered for thyroid protection during an iodide fibrinogen uptake test to detect phlebothrombosis of the legs. Discontinuation of SSKI was accompanied by regression of all lesions. Previous case reports include other patients who experienced iododerma after receiving low doses of iodides. This should be borne in mind if ever a mass iodide prophylaxis program is undertaken following a nuclear event.