Systemic Contact Dermatitis due to Chloramphenicol

—A Case Sensitized through an Ophtalmic Solution and Induced by the Vaginal Route—

Abstract

A 23-year-old Japanese woman developed characteristic systemic contact dermatitis due to chloramphenicol. She presented with both a pruritic maculopapular eruption around her right eye as well as edema in the intertriginous areas after using a vaginal tablet of chloramphenicol. Patch testing revealed positive reactions to chloramphenicol powder, vaginal tablets and ophtalmic solution. It was therefore assumed that the previously used chloramphenicol ophthalmic solution had sensitized this patient.