From road rash to top allergen in a flash: bacitracin.
BACKGROUND
Bacitracin is an antibiotic that is produced by Bacillus subtilis, which is used in several types of consumer products, including cosmetics and ophthalmic and cutaneous ointments.


OBJECTIVE
To call attention to the rising allergic contact dermatitis associated with bacitracin.


RESULTS
Mass usage has resulted in an increasing number of clinically relevant allergic contact dermatitis reactions and near fatal anaphylaxis. The North American Contact Dermatitis Group has recorded its emergence as a leading allergen and continues to monitor the ever-growing allergic reaction rates.


CONCLUSIONS
The clinical impact, scientific evidence, and need for medical cost containment all advocate the discontinuation of routine usage of bacitracin in clean surgical wounds.
Jacob
Sharon E
SE
Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, Florida.
James
William D
WD
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001414:Bacitracin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000209:etiology*; D003875:Drug Eruptions / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans
D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local; D001414:Bacitracin