ABSTRACT
Dimethindene is an indene histamine H1 antagonist. It is indicated as symptomatic treatment of allergic reactions such as urticaria, allergies of the upper respiratory tract such as hay fever and perennial rhinitis, and food and drug allergies. It is also used for pruritus of various origins, e.g. from insect bites, varicella, eczema and other pruriginous dermatoses on account of its sedative properties. In Leuven, Belgium, in the period 1990-2014, iatrogenic contact dermatitis was diagnosed in 2600 individuals (17% of the total patch test population) 96% of all positive patch test reactions to topical drugs and antiseptics were considered to be relevant. A 12-year-old boy presented with an acute eczematous eruption on one leg, after having applied a gel containing dimethindene maleate on insect bites. In order to calm the pruritus, drops containing dimethindene maleate were taken orally, and 24 hr later the patient developed a diffuse, itchy, maculopapular and vesicular rash.
