Unusual Reaction to Penicillin in Oil and Wax

Abstract

AS new forms and combinations of penicillin have been developed, the reported incidence of hypersensitivity has also increased. Keefer¹ states that the incidence of hypersensitivity following the use of amorphous penicillin in aqueous solution has varied between 2 and 5 per cent. Although there is a belief that hypersensitive reactions are somewhat greater when penicillin in peanut oil and beeswax is used, conclusive evidence is not yet available.² Beeswax itself has been regarded as nonantigenic,³ but some authorities think that certain persons may become sensitized to it.¹ Extensive studies have failed to show that pollen extracts are carried over in . . .