Ichthammol-induced contact dermatitis in a pediatric patient

Abstract:

Ichthammol is commonly used in clinical practice for the management of venous catheter-related phlebitis and associated edema. Although generally well tolerated, its topical application may occasionally lead to hypersensitivity reactions such as skin rash, itching, and swelling of the lips, face, or tongue. In this case, an adverse drug reaction (ADR) was reported from the pediatric ward to the ADR monitoring center at the Department of Pharmacology, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, as part of the pharmacovigilance elective for MBBS third professional part 1 students. The patient developed skin rashes, blistering, and itching following topical application of ichthammol. The reaction was clinically diagnosed as contact dermatitis, and the offending medication was immediately discontinued, leading to symptomatic improvement. Reports of ichthammol-induced contact dermatitis remain limited in India, possibly due to underreporting or the rarity of such reactions. This case represents the second reported instance in the pediatric population at our center. Given the infrequent documentation and the clinical relevance of this ADR, reporting such cases can help raise awareness and support safer use of ichthammol in clinical settings.