Chlorhexidine wipes: Time to stop and think about allergy
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 27, 2026

Basophil Activation Test for Allergy Diagnosis
Published on: May 31, 2021
Brigid T Doolan1, Helen M Crilly1
1Tweed Hospital Perioperative Allergy Service, Australia.
Abstract:
We report three precautionary cases of perioperative anaphylaxis to chlorhexidine isopropyl alcohol antiseptic wipes (CAW). In two cases, the patients were inadvertently re-exposed to CAW despite known chlorhexidine hypersensitivity. Chlorhexidine has been described as 'the hidden allergen'. As a result, patients may suffer multiple reactions before chlorhexidine is confirmed as the cause. Healthcare workers may not recognize that products they use for common clinical steps contain chlorhexidine. These cases highlight the need for constant vigilance to facilitate the safe management of patients with a history of chlorhexidine anaphylaxis.
Related Concept Videos
Generation Time
Mixing Time
Mean free path and Mean free time
Time Course of Drug Effect
Setting Time of Cement
Timing and Consequences on Behavior
Humans, however, can respond to delayed reinforcers. We often make decisions between immediate small rewards and delayed larger rewards. This ability to delay gratification is a significant...

