Dermatitis. 2007 Dec;18(4):212-4.

Allergens retained in clothing.

Nedorost S, Kessler M, McCormick T. University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, OH, USA.

BACKGROUND: Some patients state compliance with avoidance of identified allergens, yet have persistent dermatitis in areas under tight-fitting clothing.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze a series of such cases to identify allergens most likely retained in clothing.

METHODS: Review of contact dermatitis clinic cases and identification of type and formula weight of allergens involved.

RESULTS: High-formula-weight allergens and allergens present in medicament ointments are difficult to dissolve in laundry detergent and water and may be retained in clothing.

CONCLUSION: Retention of allergens in clothing, even after washing, may explain recalcitrant dermatitis in a patient who states compliance with avoidance of a seemingly relevant allergen. Dermatologists should consider the possibility of allergen retention in clothing whenever a patient has only partial clearing after at least 1 month of attempted compliance with avoidance of identified allergens. Purchase of new clothing may be required to clear allergic contact dermatitis in this situation.

PMID: 18021601 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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