The relevance of chlorhexidine contact allergy

Abstract

Chlorhexidine-containing corticosteroid creams, skin disinfectants and oral hygiene products are principal sources of chlorhexidine contact sensitization. Exposure to chlorhexidine in cosmetics may lead to delayed improvement of eczema in sensitized patients, emphasizing the importance of identifying the potential cosmetic sources.

Evaluation of Dermatological Consultations of Patients treated in Intensive Care Unit

“…The frequency of ACD was found to be higher in patients with COPD than patients with other associated diseases. Chlorhexidine is the most frequently used skin disinfectant in our ICU patients as reported in previous reports [13,14], and contact sensitization and ACD may emerge from exposure to this chemical antiseptic. Although we could not perform epicutaneous testing to our patients, our clinical observations supported the high frequency of ACD due to chlorhexidine in ICU patients.…”

A comparison of the irritant and allergenic properties of antiseptics

“…Large studies show a sensitization rate of 2%, mainly after repeated applications. It is generally considered a rather common event in terms of relevance [33]. In most cases, the reaction is limited to the site of application but it can eventually extend to other areas of the skin.…”

Chlorhexidine Gluconate–Impregnated Central Access Catheter Dressings as a Cause of Erosive Contact Dermatitis

“…[7][8][9][10][11] The prevalence of sensitization to chlorhexidine gluconate in positive skin patch test results ranges from 0.47% to 2.7%, with the highest rates in children with atopic dermatitis. 12,13 However, the local ICD that is the most frequent adverse reaction to chlorhexidine gluconate exposure in children has not been as thoroughly examined in the literature. Previous reports of ICD after chlorhexidine gluconate exposure in children describe a range of clinical presentations from mild erythema to severe exudative reactions.…”