Genital ulceration due to Stoddard solvent.

Five cases of ulcerative and erythematous lesions on the genitals and buttocks which occurred among workers whose coveralls had been dry-cleaned using Stoddard solvent are presented. A typical clinical picture and investigative results were consistent with irritant contact dermatitis. The literature on the two most commonly used dry-cleaning fluids is reviewed. The hazards of dry-cleaning chemicals, both for workers in dry-cleaning shops and for their clients who wear the cleaned clothes, are outlined. Suggestions pertaining to the avoidance of cutaneous reactions are detailed.