The results on thimerosal (Merthiolate) hypersensitivity of a retrospective study, together with the relevant data on thimerosal hypersensitivity referred to in the literature up to 1993, are presented. Positive patch test reactions to thimerosal (0.1% pet.) were observed in 32 (1.3%) of 2461 adult patients with suspected contact allergy examined in the period 1987–1992. 20 (0.8%) patients had a solitary positive patch test to thimerosal. The observed incidence is low. Clinical symptoms related to thimerosal hypersensitivity were observed in only 3 patients. The collected results are discussed with emphasis on the clinical implications of sensitization to thimerosal. It appears that a positive patch test to thimerosal is frequently clinically irrelevant.

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doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0536.1994.tb02022.x, hdl.handle.net/1765/71995
Contact Dermatitis
Department of Dermatology

Van 't Veen, A., & van Joost, T. (1994). Sensitization to thimerosal (Merthiolate) is still present today. Contact Dermatitis, 31(5), 293–298. doi:10.1111/j.1600-0536.1994.tb02022.x