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Chlorhexidine and hypersensitivity reactions in dentistry.
1University Dental Hospital of Manchester and School of Dentistry, Higher Cambridge Street, Manchester, M15 6FH, UK. mike.pemberton@manchester.ac.uk
British Dental Journal
|December 11, 2012
Summary
Chlorhexidine can cause allergic reactions, including Type I and Type IV hypersensitivity, which are not widely recognized in dentistry. Dentists should consider chlorhexidine allergy when diagnosing unexplained hypersensitivity reactions.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dental Medicine
- Allergology
Background:
- Immunological reactions to chlorhexidine, such as Type I hypersensitivity (allergy) and Type IV hypersensitivity (allergic contact dermatitis/stomatitis), are known.
- Awareness of these potential adverse effects is limited within the dental profession.
Purpose of the Study:
- To inform dentists and dental care professionals about the risk of chlorhexidine-induced hypersensitivity reactions.
- To encourage consideration of chlorhexidine allergy in cases of unexplained hypersensitivity.
Main Methods:
- This paper is a review and alert based on existing knowledge.
- No new experimental data were generated.
Main Results:
- Chlorhexidine can trigger both immediate (Type I) and delayed (Type IV) hypersensitivity reactions.
- These reactions may manifest as oral or dermal symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Hypersensitivity reactions to chlorhexidine are a potential safety concern in dentistry.
- Dental practitioners should maintain a high index of suspicion for chlorhexidine allergy when evaluating patients with unexplained hypersensitivity symptoms.
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