Photoallergic contact dermatitis from ketoprofen induced by drug-contaminated personal objects

Photoallergic contact dermatitis from ketoprofen has been recognized since the mid-1980s. Skin reactions have been reported to continue weeks after discontinuation of ketoprofen. One reason for this could be residual ketoprofen in the skin, which has been shown in a skin biopsy specimen.

We sought to report on 3 cases of photoallergic contact dermatitis from ketoprofen in topical anti-inflammatory gels and on relapses of dermatitis appearing after use of ketoprofen-contaminated objects.

We patch and photopatch tested, with standard series, the anti-inflammatory gel, ketoprofen, and its ingredients in serial dilutions and extracts of personal objects. We performed chemical investigations of personal objects with thin-layer chromatography, high-pressure liquid chromatography, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Photoallergy was demonstrated to ketoprofen, which was detected in personal objects.

Relapses of photoallergic contact dermatitis in patients photoallergic to ketoprofen can be induced by ketoprofen-contaminated objects such as bandages and slippers.