12-Year-Old Girl Experiences Rash and Itching After Using Benzoyl Peroxide Ointment for Acne
"Adequate Consultation with Medical Staff Needed When Prescribing"
The appearance of Ms. A (left) when she visited the emergency room with her face gradually swelling after applying acne ointment, and her condition worsening significantly after hospitalization. Ulster Medical Society
A story has been shared about a 12-year-old girl who experienced a severe allergic reaction after applying acne ointment.
According to Health Chosun on the 27th, pediatric medical staff at the Royal Belfast Children's Hospital in the UK reported that A (12), who was usually healthy, visited the emergency room due to a rash on her face and persistent itching. Test results showed that at the time, A’s face was slightly swollen, with pain and erythema localized around the eyes, cheeks, and nose. A began inpatient treatment with intravenous antibiotics.
However, six hours after admission, her symptoms worsened significantly. The swelling around A’s eyes became so severe that she could not open them, and her skin thickened with yellow crusts forming. Fortunately, there were no respiratory, cardiovascular, or gastrointestinal issues. Upon reviewing A’s medical history, the medical staff confirmed that she had been prescribed and used benzoyl peroxide (BPO) ointment for pustular acne by her doctor two weeks prior.
Accordingly, the medical team started treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics. Fortunately, within 24 hours of treatment, the symptoms nearly subsided and completely disappeared within two weeks. Various tests confirmed that A’s symptoms were caused by 'allergic contact dermatitis' due to the benzoyl peroxide ointment ingredients.
The medical staff at the Royal Belfast Children's Hospital explained, "Allergic contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction caused by allergens. When it appears on the face, it mainly causes severe swelling around the eyes, erythema, dermatitis, itching, and pain." Benzoyl peroxide, which triggered the allergy in A, is a commonly prescribed treatment for acne in children and adolescents. The medical team emphasized, "Pediatricians should be aware that such side effects can occur when prescribing benzoyl peroxide," and added, "Patients need to receive safe counseling about the side effects of this medication."
Meanwhile, prevention is more important than treatment for acne. Especially, thoroughly cleansing external substances before bedtime is crucial. If cleansing is not done carefully, pores can become clogged, easily causing acne. Additionally, avoiding greasy foods that can excessively stimulate sebum production, getting sufficient sleep, and reducing stress should not be overlooked.
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