Eczema vaccinatum T88.1

Term of only historical significance. Localized or disseminated ( vaccinia generalisata) viral disease caused by the vaccinia virus of the formerly legally prescribed smallpox vaccination, which occurred as a complication of pre-existing atopic eczema. Postvaccinal encephalitis was feared, with a lethality of 25-50%.

Currently relevant again due to the fear of biological warfare with smallpox viruses.

Eczema vaccinatum may occur in:

- atopic eczema,

- syndromes such as hyper-IgE syndrome, Netherton's syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome..,

- dermatoses with a disturbed skin barrier such as seborrheic eczema, Darier's disease, Hailey-Hailey disease, icthyosiform erythroderma, ichthyosis vulgaris, pemphigus vulgaris, pemphigus foliaceus.

Therapy:

- Vaccination not with ACAM2000, but with attenuated IMVAMUNE vaccine (Developed in the USA).

- Avoid contact with vaccinated persons shortly after vaccination.

- In consultation with the virologist, treatment with immunoglobulins and antiviral agents is possible.