Allergic contact dermatitis and conjunctivitis to corticosteroids

This is a report of two patients suspected of having allergic dermato-conjunctivitis due to corticosteroids. Both were tested with the constituents of the ointments they were using, that is, corticosteroids, antibacterial agents, preservatives, and other active ingredients of the ointment bases. Both patients showed positive allergic patch test reactions to the respective corticosteroid betamethasone valerate, and one to hydrocortisone, neomycin, and a rubber additive. The importance of routine patch testing in ophthalmic practice to detect sensitizers in cases of allergy is mentioned. Hydrocortisone (25%) in petrolatum is recommended for patch testing.