Local Allergic Reaction to Ocular Chloramphenicol Ointment: A Diagnosis by High Index of Clinical Suspicion

• Main Authors: Ratnesh Ranjan (Author), Shikha Ranjan (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Journal of Clinical Research and Ophthalmology - Peertechz Publications, 2014-09-15.
• Subjects: Case Report
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.

Summary

<p>Chloramphenicol is a widely used topical ointment applied routinely for ocular and periorbital infections due to its wide spectrum of anti-bacterial activity. Local delayed hypersensitivity reaction to chloramphenicol is a well reported but uncommon adverse effect, and has been reported to be mismanaged initially as an infective cellulitis [1]. Hereby, we are reporting a case of local hypersensitivity reaction to chloramphenicol after ocular use for adenexal infection, which was diagnosed with high index of suspicion without any clinical test, and was managed timely and successfully.</p><p><strong>Case History</strong></p><p>A 38-year-old man presented to out-patient department with painless swelling around both eyes of 24 hours duration. Onset of swelling was sudden, and started around 48 hours after application of chloramphenicol ointment for stye. There was no history of fever and any drug allergy. Patient also gave the history of recurrent stye in both eyes and the chloramphenicol ointment was prescribed for the same</p><p>by a general physician in a government hospital about two months back. Patient used the same ointment pack, which was opened about two months back.</p>

DOI

10.17352/2455-1414.000006