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Bromfenac with Sodium Bisulfite Inducing Contact Dermatitis and Corneal Ring Infiltrate: A Case Report

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: The aim of the study was to report a case of bromfenac with sodium bisulfite preservative induced contact dermatitis and a secondary sterile corneal ring infiltrate. Case Presentation: A 44-year-old male presented with a 1-week unilateral periocular dermatitis and eye redness. Initially the dermatitis responded to oral prednisone 80 mg and subsequent taper over 2 weeks. Upon tapering the prednisone, the patient returned with a recurrent dermatitis a week later. Dermatological workup included a skin biopsy demonstrating spongiotic dermatitis and a skin panel allergy test positive for sodium metabisulfite. The patient later mentioned self-administering bromfenac ophthalmic eye drops that contained sodium bisulfite. After the prolonged bromfenac use, the patient also developed a sterile corneal ring ulcer. The dermatitis finally resolved after discontinuing the bromfenac ophthalmic drops; however, the ring ulcer persisted after 3 months. Conclusion: Topical bromfenac ophthalmic drops may induce a severe contact dermatitis related to the inactive ingredient sodium bisulfite within the solution. Chronic use of the bromfenac may also cause a sterile ring infiltrate. Caution should be given to patients in using eye drops with sulfite sensitivity or allergy.

Source: Case Reports in Ophthalmology

DOI: 10.1159/000551524

Authors: Christopher D. Gelston, John J. Fowler, Brittany M. Perzia

Institution: University of Colorado Anschutz

Language: English

Topic: Contact Dermatitis and Allergies

Subfield: Dermatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,030