A generalized reaction to thimerosal from an influenza vaccine.
BACKGROUND
Thimerosal is a preservative commonly used in ophthalmic solutions, otic drops, and vaccines because of its bactericidal property.


OBJECTIVE
To report a case of a generalized reaction to thimerosal in a patient who received an influenza vaccine.


METHODS
We describe a patient who developed a generalized maculopapular eruption after receiving a thimerosal-containing influenza vaccine. Patch testing was performed to determine if there was an allergy to thimerosal.


RESULTS
Patch testing confirmed a T-cell-mediated sensitivity to thimerosal.


CONCLUSIONS
Physicians need to be aware that thimerosal is found in many products, including vaccinations. Clinicians should also be aware that allergic reactions occur with exposure to thimerosal even in vaccines. To our knowledge, this is the first case report in the literature of a generalized reaction to thimerosalfrom an influenza vaccine.
Lee-Wong
Mary
M
Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Internal Medicine, Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, New York 10003, USA.
Resnick
David
D
Chong
Kaman
K
D000328:Adult; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000276:immunology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007252:Influenza Vaccines / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000276:immunology; D010328:Patch Tests; D011310:Preservatives, Pharmaceutical / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013849:Thimerosal / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000276:immunology; D014611:Vaccination / Q000009:adverse effects
D007252:Influenza Vaccines; D011310:Preservatives, Pharmaceutical; D013849:Thimerosal