Contact dermatitis to a topical formulation of heparin in a blood donor.

Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory reaction to an irritant or allergen coming in contact with the skin. In this report, the authors present a case of contact dermatitis in a blood donor, which developed in response to the application of a topical heparin formulation. Topical heparin preparations are regularly used in blood centers for the resolution of hematomas associated with phlebotomy. Blood center personnel must be aware of this possible adverse effect that can add to the discomfort in a donor and use these preparations cautiously.