The defenseman was replaced in the lineup by defenseman Tim Heed.
The Sharks were also without forward Evander Kane, who is serving a three-game suspension for physical abuse of an official.
San Jose lost 4-1. The teams play again Friday.
Karlsson is in his second season with the Sharks after playing the previous nine with the Ottawa Senators. A two-time Norris Trophy winner, he had 45 points (three goals, 42 assists) in 53 games last season.
