Allergic dermatitis to benzyl alcohol in an injectable solution

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Contact Hypersensitivity

Background:

• Benzyl alcohol is a common preservative in injectable medications.
• Sodium tetradecyl sulfate is a sclerosing agent for varicose vein treatment.

Observation:

• A 46-year-old woman developed allergic contact dermatitis.
• The dermatitis presented as erythema, edema, and raised borders.

Findings:

• The patient's allergic contact dermatitis was attributed to benzyl alcohol.
• The reaction occurred subsequent to the use of sodium tetradecyl sulfate.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential for benzyl alcohol to act as a contact allergen.
• Reviewing the use of benzyl alcohol in injectable agents is warranted.