Effect of rifampin on cutaneous hypersensitivity to purified protein derivative in humans

The effect of rifampin on cutaneous hypersensitivity was studied in 11 tuberculous patients. A suppressive effect was noted in eight patients, five of whom developed a negative response to the strength of purified protein derivative to which they had been shown to be previously sensitive. In one instance complete anergy to purified protein derivative was noted. It appears that rifampin has immunosuppressive effects in some patients when used in conventional doses.