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Contact Hypersensitivity as a Murine Model of Allergic Contact Dermatitis
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Antimicrobial allergy from polyvinyl chloride gloves

Kristiina Aalto-Korte1, Kristiina Alanko, Maj-Len Henriks-Eckerman

  • 1Control of Hypersensitivity Diseases Team, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland. kristiina.aalto-korte@ttl.fi

Archives of Dermatology
|October 18, 2006
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Contact allergy to benzisothiazolinone in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gloves is rare but possible. Patients with existing hand dermatitis may develop allergic reactions to this biocide found in some disposable gloves.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Allergology
  • Occupational Health

Background:

  • Contact allergy to plastic gloves is uncommon.
  • Benzisothiazolinone, a biocide, is used in industrial applications.
  • This study investigates potential delayed-type contact allergy to benzisothiazolinone in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gloves.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify and report cases of contact allergy to benzisothiazolinone in PVC gloves.
  • To raise awareness about a potential allergen in disposable gloves.
  • To recommend diagnostic and preventative measures for affected patients.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of medical records (1991-2005) for patients with hand dermatitis and PVC glove use.
  • Patch testing to assess allergic reactions to glove materials and benzisothiazolinone.
  • Chemical analysis of PVC gloves to quantify benzisothiazolinone content.

Main Results:

  • Eight patients with benzisothiazolinone allergy experienced hand dermatitis exacerbations linked to PVC gloves.
  • Three patients showed allergic or doubtful reactions to glove materials during patch testing.
  • Specific PVC glove brands contained 9-32 ppm of benzisothiazolinone; affected patients often worked in healthcare or farming.

Conclusions:

  • This is the first report of contact allergy to benzisothiazolinone in plastic gloves.
  • Benzisothiazolinone in disposable PVC gloves can sensitize individuals with pre-existing hand dermatitis.
  • Patch testing for benzisothiazolinone is recommended for patients experiencing hand dermatitis while using PVC gloves.

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