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[Contact dermatitis following cardiac pacemaker implantation]
C Moïni1, A d'Alteroche, P Cosnay
1Service de cardiologie B et Laboratoire d'électrophysiologie cardiaque, Tours.
Archives Des Maladies Du Coeur Et Des Vaisseaux
|February 1, 1996
Summary
Contact eczema can be caused by cardiac pacemaker implantation, with metallic and plastic components being primary allergens. Complete allergen removal is the only effective treatment for this rare condition.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cardiology
- Allergology
Background:
- Eczema secondary to cardiac pacemaker implantation is a rare condition.
- Only 11 cases have been previously reported in dermatological literature.
Observation:
- This case report illustrates a causal link between pacemaker implantation and contact eczema.
- Lesions were observed at the pacemaker site in 60% of reported cases.
- Rash onset varied from 2 days to 24 months post-implantation.
Findings:
- The primary causal allergens identified were the metallic and plastic components of the pacemaker.
- Pathophysiology involves cellular immunity and delayed hypersensitivity reactions.
Implications:
- Topical steroid treatments for localized eczema are often ineffective, with common recurrence.
- Complete removal of the pacemaker (allergen) is the only definitive treatment.
- Increased awareness among dermatologists and cardiologists is crucial for diagnosis and management.