This is a case study of a patient who developed a maculopapular rash following thimerosal-containing vaccine administration due to allergy.

PMID: 

Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2005 Jan ;94(1):90-4. PMID: 15702823

Abstract Title: 

A generalized reaction to thimerosal from an influenza vaccine.

Abstract: 

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.

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