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Allergic contact dermatitis from a wooden necklace
1Dermatology Center, General Hospital, Am Krankenhaus, Buxtehude, Germany.
Summary
A kitchenworker developed allergic contact dermatitis from a wooden necklace. Patch testing identified Cocobolo and rosewood components as the cause, revealing a childhood allergy.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Toxicology
- Wood Science
Background:
- Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) can be triggered by various substances, including natural products like wood.
- Identifying specific wood allergens is crucial for accurate diagnosis and prevention of recurrent dermatitis.
Observation:
- A 36-year-old female kitchenworker presented with recurrent eczematous lesions on her neck.
- The lesions corresponded precisely to the area where she wore a necklace made of various wooden components.
Findings:
- The necklace was composed of Cocobolo, Brazilian rosewood, East Indian rosewood, and teak.
- Patch testing revealed strong positive reactions to three dalbergions and obtusaquinone, known sensitizers in Cocobolo and rosewoods.
- These findings confirmed the specific wood species responsible for the patient's allergic contact dermatitis.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for wood products, even those worn externally, to cause significant allergic reactions.
- Accurate identification of wood species and their chemical constituents is vital for diagnosing occupational and environmental allergies.
- Clinicians should consider wood-induced contact dermatitis in patients with unexplained eczematous lesions, particularly in occupational settings involving wood exposure.