Allergic contact dermatitis caused by alkyl glucosides.

BACKGROUND

Alkyl glucosides were not expected to have a sensitizing potential at the concentrations to be used in finished consumer products; however, several contact allergy cases have been published.

OBJECTIVES

To report on the patients suffering from allergic contact dermatitis caused by alkyl glucosides observed in our department.

PATIENTS/

METHODS

During a 19-year period (1993-2012), 11 842 patients with suspected contact dermatitis were patch tested with the European baseline series and, if relevant, also with other series and individual allergens. For this study, the clinical data and the sensitization sources in the alkyl glucoside-positive patients were analysed.

RESULTS

In total, 30 patients (24 women and 6 men) presented with a positive reaction to one or more alkyl glucosides. The causal products were shampoos (in 12), skin-cleansing products (in 12, among which were wipes for intimate hygiene), sunscreen products (in 5), skin-care products (in 4), and a deodorant (in 1). Sixteen patients showed multiple sensitivities (defined as three or more contact allergies), not only to other glucosides, but also to non-related chemicals.

CONCLUSIONS

Allergic contact dermatitis caused by alkyl glucosides in cosmetics does occur, and might be more frequent than suspected. In view of their common use, their identification as allergenic culprits is important.