Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 21, 2026

Recognition of Epidermal Transglutaminase by IgA and Tissue Transglutaminase 2 Antibodies in a Rare Case of Rhesus Dermatitis
Published on: December 15, 2011
"Slime" dermatitis, a fad-associated chronic hand dermatitis
Katherine E Kondratuk1, Scott A Norton2
1University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Abstract:
"Slime" is the colloquial name for a non-Newtonian viscoelastic putty-like substance that is currently a popular plaything among pre-teens and adolescents. Several ingredients in homemade slime recipes may cause irritant or allergic contact dermatitis. We report two children who developed slime-associated chronic hand dermatitis, more prominently on their dominant hand. We review the potential for irritant and allergic contact dermatoses as the causes of dermatitis associated with homemade slime.
Insights
Homemade slime can cause chronic hand dermatitis in children. Ingredients in popular slime recipes may lead to irritant or allergic contact dermatitis, especially on the dominant hand.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Toxicology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Slime, a non-Newtonian viscoelastic substance, is a popular toy among children.
- Homemade slime recipes often contain ingredients with the potential to cause skin reactions.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases of chronic hand dermatitis associated with slime use are presented.
- Dermatitis was more pronounced on the dominant hand in both cases.
Findings:
- Slime-associated dermatitis can manifest as irritant or allergic contact dermatitis.
- The specific ingredients responsible for the contact dermatitis require further investigation.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should consider slime exposure in the differential diagnosis of pediatric hand dermatitis.
- Educating parents and children about potential skin irritants in homemade slime is recommended.
Related Concept Videos
Hand hygiene
Hand washing...
Papillary Dermis
The dermis might be considered the "core" of the integumentary system, as distinct from the epidermis and hypodermis. It contains blood and lymph vessels, nerves, and other structures, such as hair follicles and sweat glands. The dermis is made of two layers of connective tissue that comprise an interconnected mesh of elastin and collagenous fibers, produced by fibroblasts.
Papillary Layer
The papillary layer is made of loose, areolar connective tissue, which means the collagen and...
Accessory Structures of the Skin: Sebaceous Glands
These glands that produce the oils on the skin and hair are holocrine glands. The mature...
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Nephrotic Syndrome I : Introduction
Staphylococcal Skin Infections

