title: Anaphylactic reactions to topical antibiotic combinations.
abstract: We describe two patients who developed anaphylaxis type reactions following the application of the topical antibiotic Polyfax (polymixin B and bacitracin). We draw attention to this potentially serious complication of topical antibiotic preparations and emphasize the need for careful history taking before prescribing such preparations.
authors.affiliation: Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, UK.
authors.forename: D J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Eedy
authors.forename: J C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: McMillan
authors.forename: E A
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Bingham
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000139:chemically induced*; D001414:Bacitracin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011112:Polymyxin B / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014647:Varicose Ulcer / Q000188:drug therapy
chemical_list: C069612:bacitracin, polymyxin B drug combination; D001414:Bacitracin; D011112:Polymyxin B