CONTACT DERMATITIS SECONDARY TO PHENYLEPHRINE EYE DROP: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Phenylephrine, a sympathomimetic drug, is commonly used in eye examinations to dilate the pupil of the eye and to differentiate scleritis from episcleritis. It is extensively used as a mydriatic agent by ophthalmologists and may cause allergic contact reactions even though it is rare. Here is a case of 46 years old female patient with acute-onset edema and erythema of both eyes associated with watering, a burning sensation, and moderate discomfort characterized by contact dermatitis. The patient develops adverse drug reaction to an eye drop containing Tropicamide 0.8%w/v + Phenylephrine 5%w/v used prior to eye fundus examination. Although uncommon, cases of allergic reaction to Phenylephrine cannot be ruled out, hence it is advisable to all the clinicians/Ophthalmologist to encourage and conduct the sensitivity test for Phenylephrine allergy, in order to minimize the possible adverse effects and ruinous consequences.