Contact sensitization to benzoyl peroxide following topical treatment of chronic leg ulcers.
Sixteen patients with chronic leg ulcers were treated with 10% benzoyl peroxide gel for 6 weeks. At the end of the treatment, patch tests with 2% benzoyl peroxide in petrolatum and 10% in a gel showed that nine patients (56%) had become sensitized. This high sensitization rate is in good accord with the results obtained by experimental investigations using human maximization tests and repeated insult patch tests. A strong sensitizer such as benzoyl peroxide should not be used in the routine treatment of chronic leg ulcers, despite its good healing effect.
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001585:Benzoyl Peroxide / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003877:Dermatitis, Contact / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007871:Leg Ulcer / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010328:Patch Tests; D010545:Peroxides / Q000009:adverse effects*
D010545:Peroxides; D001585:Benzoyl Peroxide