Cutaneous side effects of alternative therapy

Abstract

Unconventional, complementary, and alternative therapies have become very popular forms of therapy and the predictions are that their popularity will continue to soar in the future. They are often perceived as being "natural" and therefore harmless, devoid of side effects, and without unpleasant consequences. The fact is that although their risks might be less than those of conventional drugs, side effects of this therapy can and do occur and must be considered as being a relevant factor in using such methods. It is to be expected that their numbers will increase in the future because of their growing popularity and because of continuing efforts to intensify their activity and therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, now more than ever, dermatologists should be familiar with all possible side effects, risks, and toxic, allergic, and possible mutagenic reactions. This article provides fundamental and vital information for practicing dermatologists.

Use of complementary and alternative medicine among adults with skin disease: Results from a national survey

“…People allergic to ragweed or other members of the aster family may develop a rash when taking Echinacea; in fact 20% of patients who are atopic in one study had IgE antibodies to Echinacea. 11 St-Johnwort has been shown to be a photosensitizer. There are many more case reports of adverse effects of herbal supplements.…”

Argyria secondary to ingestion of homemade silver solution

“…18 There is no known treatment for argyria, and the discoloration of the skin is usually permanent. 1,4,9,19 26 Lee and Werth, 27 Bedi and Shenefelt, 28 and Mevorah et al 29 Depigmenting creams, hydroquinone, and dermabrasion are not useful. 1,3 Chelation therapy with British antilewisite or D-penicillamine is ineffective.…”

How to Handle Worsening of Condition during Treatment - Risk Assessment in Homeopathic Practice

“…Data from observational studies and surveys [24] reveal that reported adverse effects from homeopathic treatment fluctuate between 2 and 11% [25]. Several cases published in scientific literature confirm these findings [4,26,27]. A review of case reports published in 2012 [28] reported that among the 38 primary cases included, 30 pertained to direct adverse effects of homeopathic remedies of different potencies and another 8 were related to adverse effects caused by substituting homeopathy for conventional medicine.…”