Allergies, Author Interviews, Dermatology, Heart Disease, JAMA / 03.04.2019
Contact Allergic Reactions to Implanted Cardiac Devices
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Amber Reck Atwater, M.D.
Dermatology Residency Program Director
Associate Professor of Dermatology
Director, Contact Dermatitis Clinic
Duke Dermatology
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
Response: We completed an evaluation of our Duke Dermatology patients who underwent patch testing for possible allergy to their cardiac devices - pacemakers and defibrillators.
From March 1, 2012 to September 15, 2017 we saw 11 patients with suspected allergy to their devices. Concern for allergy, skin eruption, skin symptoms, and concern for infection were common. 73% of patients had erythema at their implant scars; pruritus and pain were also noted. Six of our patients had relevant reactions, and the most common allergies were metals, silicone and rubber accelerators. (more…)