Allergic Reaction to Suture Material After an ICD Procedure: Device Infection Mimicry

Abstract

When an implanted device is infected, complete explantation of the device system, including lead extraction, is usually required. Superficial problems with wound healing may be managed more conservatively, but distinguishing between a surface process and deeper infection can pose a clinical challenge. We present a case of poor wound healing after an ICD pocket revision procedure, and an allergic reaction to the suture material was found to be the cause. Diagnosis, management, and future implications of suture allergy are discussed.

Device infection mimicry: Physical examination characteristics and procedural technique for pacemaker-associated skin cancer

“…Cutaneous malignancy over a device pocket has been described as a mimicker of pocket infection, and requires an awareness of and suspicion for this possibility in order to make the correct diagnosis and manage the problem appropriately. 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 This case highlights the importance of the physical examination and maintaining a broad differential diagnosis, to protect the patient from avoidable risks that may be associated with a delayed diagnosis or incorrect management.…”

Oral Contact Allergy to Suture Material Resulting in Connective Tissue Graft Failure: A Case Report

“…However, the risk of oral contact allergy (OCA) from suture material cannot be excluded. Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to suture material has been reported, although it was more common in the past 1‐5 . In addition to skin, ACD to suture material has been reported in different organs, including the heart and thyroid gland 5,6 .…”

“…Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to suture material has been reported, although it was more common in the past 1‐5 . In addition to skin, ACD to suture material has been reported in different organs, including the heart and thyroid gland 5,6 . Today, there are rarely reports of ACD to suture material because of the development of new synthetic, slowly absorbed and less reactive sutures, such as polyglactin 910 ‡ .…”