Atopic Dermatitis and Smallpox Vaccine?

Hi,
I was wondering if anyone knows the effects of having the smallpox vaccine eventhough you have atopic dermatitis?  Here is the situation.  I am a 26 year old Female.  I'm in the military, and 5 years ago I was required to get the smallpox vaccine.  The paperwork and warning signs stated that you should not take the vaccine if you have ever had any form of eczema.  I told the Doctors that when I was 15, I was told I had atopic dermatitis, and they forced me to take the vaccine anyway.  When I was 15, I was treated for my symptoms, which were all on the face:  severe burning when sweating, flaking skin, and red bumps.  Every since I had that vaccine (5 years ago) my face has never been clear again.  For the past 5 years, I've had continual random breakouts on my face and I also now have milia as well that I try to combat away.  Also, my dermatitis is back in full swing.  I was curious if anyone knew if my symptoms could be linked to the smallpox vaccine or if it is just random/hormonal.  I have told multiple doctors about this situation and none of them either seem to care or don't know.

Thanks for any advice/tips/general knowledge!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Small pox vaccine is contraindicated in patients who have eczema or atopic dermatitis as it may cause flare up of the symptoms. Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. You can take some OTC oral antihistamine medications like Benadryl or Claritin and see if it helps.

For mild-moderate symptoms a weak steroid may be used (e.g. hydrocortisone as dermacort), whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid (e.g. clobetasol propionate, fluocinonide).  Also use good quality moisturizers to prevent moisture loss from the skin.

If still the symptoms do not improve then please get a clinical examination done by a dermatologist.
I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted in case you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.