Pacemaker contact sensitivity: clinical recognition and management

Ann Thorac Surg. 1994 Apr;57(4):1017-8. doi: 10.1016/0003-4975(94)90228-3.

Abstract

We report a patient in whom vesicular lesions of the skin developed overlying the pacemaker at intervals of 3 to 8 months after each of three consecutive insertions. Patch skin tests were positive for titanium and polyurethane sensitization. Although pacemaker contact sensitivity is rare, its recognition is of vital importance to the pacemaker-dependent patient.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arrhythmia, Sinus / complications
  • Arrhythmia, Sinus / therapy*
  • Child
  • Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / diagnosis*
  • Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / etiology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pacemaker, Artificial / adverse effects*
  • Polyurethanes / adverse effects*
  • Recurrence
  • Silicones / adverse effects*
  • Skin Tests
  • Syncope / etiology*
  • Titanium / adverse effects*
  • Vagus Nerve*

Substances

  • Polyurethanes
  • Silicones
  • Titanium