Laxative-Induced Contact Dermatitis

Jennifer E Melvin1, Robert W Hickey

  • 1From the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA.

A 5-year-old female with Charcot-Marie-Tooth neuropathy and a history of constipation presented to the emergency department with a new blistering buttocks rash, which was initially concerning for nonaccidental burn. Upon further investigation, it was found that Ex-Lax had been given to the patient for constipation. This had resulted in a bowel movement, which led to an irritant dermatitis. The patient was eventually diagnosed with senna-induced erosive diaper dermatitis. This case report highlights the importance of a thorough history and physical examination to prevent an unnecessary child abuse work-up.

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