ABSTRACT

Topical antibiotics, frequently used in daily practice, are one of the most com-mon causes of allergic contact dermatitis. Herein, we report a case of contact dermatitis to Terramycin® ointment after mammaplasty. Allergic contact der-matitis to a topical antibiotic should be considered in any patient who has deve-loped a dermatitis after surgery. Topical use of antibiotics should be restricted to real indications and avoided in immediate postoperative wound care. One of the main potential risks for the contact sensitization of the topical antibiotics is the occurrence allergic cross-reactions. This could prevent the use of some oral antibiotics for the treatment of future infections in these patients.