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Phytophotodermatitis due to a Citrus-Based Hand Sanitizer: A Case Report.
Kevin P Lee1, Raghavendra L Girijala2, Susan Y Chon2,3
1McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
Phytophotodermatitis, a skin reaction from plant compounds and sunlight, can be caused by citrus. This case highlights a reaction from a blood orange hand sanitizer, the first reported instance.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Phytophotodermatitis is a skin reaction from plant photosensitizers and UV light.
- Psoralens in citrus fruits are common causes.
Observation:
- A woman developed a rash after applying a blood orange hand sanitizer and sun exposure.
- Symptoms included pruritic eruptions on her thigh.
Findings:
- This is the first reported case of phytophotodermatitis caused by a hand sanitizer.
- The hand sanitizer contained a blood orange (Citrus sinensis) extract.
Implications:
- Increased hand sanitizer use may lead to more phytophotodermatitis cases.
- Physicians should consider hand sanitizers as a potential cause of phytophotodermatitis.
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