Thimerosal and the relevance of patch-test reactions in children.

Full Abstract

Thimerosal (C(9)H(9)HgNaO(2)S) is a mercuric derivative of thiosalicylic acid that goes by many names. It has been used as a disinfectant (eg, Merthiolate) and as a preservative in some vaccines, cosmetics, tattoo inks, eye drops, and contact lens solutions. It remains one of the least likely chemicals to cause contact allergy and for this reason has been removed from many standard screening series. Positive patch-test reactions (demonstrating sensitization) may still be seen (especially in older children); however, these reactions are not clinically relevant and are expected to be fewer, reflecting changes in current vaccine formulations.

Author information

Author/s: Breithaupt, Andrew (A); Jacob, Sharon E (SE);

Affiliation: University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article

Journal: Dermatitis : contact, atopic, occupational, drug : official journal of the American Contact Dermatitis Society, North American Contact Dermatitis Group (Dermatitis), published in Canada. (Language: eng)

Reference: -2008 Sep-Oct; vol 19 (issue 5) : pp 275-7

Dates: Created 2008/10/10; Completed 2009/01/06;

PMID: 18845117, status: MEDLINE (last retrieved date: 2/18/2009)

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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