Sharon E Jacob1, William D James. 1. Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, Florida.
Abstract
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. CONCLUSION: The clinical impact, scientific evidence, and need for medical cost containment all advocate the discontinuation of routine usage of bacitracin in clean surgical wounds.
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. CONCLUSION: The clinical impact, scientific evidence, and need for medical cost containment all advocate the discontinuation of routine usage of bacitracin in clean surgical wounds.
Authors: Samuel K Campos; Janice A Chapman; Martin J Deymier; Matthew P Bronnimann; Michelle A Ozbun Journal: J Virol Date: 2012-02-15 Impact factor: 5.103