Dermatologica Sinica (Dec 2010)

Allergic contact dermatitis induced by zinc pyrithione in shampoo: a case report

  • Chih-Wei Hsieh,
  • Mei-Eng Tu,
  • Yu-Hung Wu

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/s1027-8117(10)60036-5
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 28, no. 4
pp. 163 – 166

Abstract

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Shampoo-induced allergic contact dermatitis is difficult to diagnose clinically because it can involve multiple and variable areas where the shampoo flows. Zinc pyrithione is a common active agent in medicated shampoo that is known to have good anti-dandruff and antifungal effects. Despite its low risk of sensitization, cases of allergic contact dermatitis still occur because of the popularity of such products. We report a 33-year-old man who developed pruritic rash on his scalp, face, neck, and hands after using a new shampoo containing zinc pyrithione. A patch test revealed a positive reaction to zinc pyrithione and personal shampoo containing zinc pyrithione.

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