Sensitization to propantheline bromide, trichlorocarbanilide and propylene glycol in an antiperspirant

Out of 14 patients with axillary dermatitis due to an antiperspirant, and with positive patch test reactions to the product, the sensitizer could be demonstrated in 12. Of these, 11 were positive to propantheline bromide, 3 to trichlorocarbanilide and one to propylene glycol. The antiperspirant contains 90% propylene glycol, which is an irritant under occlusion. When applied in the axillae, where occlusive conditions usually prevail, an irritant effect of propylene glycol may have promoted sensitization to the ingredients of the antiperspirant.