Contact allergy to propylene oxide and isopropyl alcohol in a skin disinfectant swab

Abstract

Two laboratory assistants developed contact dermatitis from a disposable swab for preinjection use, containing isopropyl alcohol 70% and propylene oxide 1%. Patch testing gave positive allergic reactions to propylene oxide in both patients, one of whom also reacted to isopropyl alcohol. Testing of 25 control persons gave negative results.