Allergic contact dermatitis from methyldibromo glutaronitrile--clinical cases from 2003

Of the 766 patients with eczematous skin disease patch tested in 2003 at the Department of Dermatology, University Clinic Gentofte, 38 (4.9%) showed a positive reaction to methyldibromo glutaronitrile (MDBGN), and in an additional 2 patients, a doubtful positive patch test reaction was found to be of relevance. Among these, 27 had hand eczema, with a relevant exposure predominantly from wash-off products, either liquid soaps or shampoos, in 24 patients. Following identification of the allergen by patch testing and subsequent avoidance of products containing MDBGN, the hand eczema either improved or cleared in 19 patients. Chemical analysis showed 11 p.p.m. to 473 p.p.m. MDBGN in products used by the patients. Based on the present clinical study and accumulated evidence in the literature, it is concluded that MDBGN is not suitable for use in any type of cosmetic product.