Authors: Jussi, Liippo; Kaija, Lammintausta

Source: Contact Dermatitis, Volume 60, Number 3, March 2009 , pp. 150-154(5)

Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell

Abstract:

Background: 

Contact sensitization to local anaesthetics is often from topical medicaments. Occupational sensitization to topical anaesthetics may occur in certain occupations. Objectives: 

The aim of the study was to analyse the occurrence of contact sensitization to topical anaesthetics in general dermatology patients. Patients and Methods: 

Patch testing with topical anaesthetics was carried out in 620 patients. Possible sources of sensitization and the clinical histories of the patients are analysed. Results: 

Positive patch test reactions to one or more topical anaesthetics were seen in 25/620 patients. Dibucaine reactions were most common (20/25), and lidocaine sensitization was seen in two patients. Six patients had reactions to ester-type and/or amide-type anaesthetics concurrently. Local preparations for perianal conditions were the most common sensitizers. One patient had developed occupational sensitization to procaine with multiple cross-reactions and with concurrent penicillin sensitization from procaine penicillin. Conclusions: 

Dibucaine-containing perianal medicaments are the major source of contact sensitization to topical anaesthetics. Although sensitization to multiple anaesthetics can be seen, cross-reactions are possible. Contact sensitization to lidocaine is not common, and possible cross-reactions should be determined when reactions to lidocaine are seen. Occupational procaine sensitization from veterinary medicaments is a risk among animal workers.

Keywords: anaesthetics; contact sensitivity; dibucaine; procaine

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0536.2008.01499.x

Affiliations: 1: Department of Dermatology, Allergy Unit, Turku University Central Hospital, PO Box 52, 20521 Turku, Finland

Publication date: 2009-03-01

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