Erythema multiforme associated with contact dermatitis

A garment worker developed erythema multiforme concurrently with allergic contact dermatitis of the hands. Patch testing revealed sensitivity to nickel (which was present in her scissors) and to paraphenylenediamine (a commercial dye). During the course of the patch-test evaluation, both the hand dermatitis and the erythema multiforme became exacerbated. Later, patch testing to only nickel sulfate resulted in the development of erythema multiforme on the face and hands. The allergic pathogenesis, involving the absorption of an allergen through the skin and resulting in a type III allergic reaction from nickel, is discussed.