ABSTRACT
Colistimethate is indicated for the treatment of acute or chronic infections due to sensitive strains of certain gram-negative bacilli, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa. At one point, the ophthalmologist substituted ofloxacin for an ophthalmic solution containing a combination of chloramphenicol and colistimethate. A 69-year-old Japanese woman used an ophthalmic solution containing chloramphenicol and colistimethate on her right eye after surgery for cataract. One year later, right periorbital dermatitis developed, and patch tests revealed positive reactions to the commercial drug and both active ingredients chloramphenicol and colistimethate. Another patient also developed allergic contact dermatitis on the eyelids due to colistimethate. Patch tests were positive to colistimethate and polymyxin B.
