Phytophotodermatitis due to a Citrus-Based Hand Sanitizer: A Case Report

Kevin P. Lee, Raghavendra L. Girijala, Susan Y. Chon

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Phytophotodermatitis, a cutaneous reaction caused by direct contact with photosensitive substances in plants and subsequent exposure to ultraviolet light, is commonly caused by psoralens in plants, including citrus fruits. We describe a case of phytophotodermatitis caused by a hand sanitizer containing a blood orange (Citrus sinensis) extract. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of phytophotodermatitis caused by a hand sanitizer. A 41-year-old woman presented with a 2-week history of pruritic cutaneous eruptions on her right thigh. Approximately 24 hours prior to the onset of her symptoms, she applied a new citrus-based hand sanitizer. Immediately after applying the hand sanitizer, her right thigh was exposed to sunlight for approximately 5 hours. Extracts from oranges are used in many cosmetics, including perfumes and fragrances. With the increased use of hand sanitizers during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, physicians should note that phytophotodermatitis due to scented hand sanitizers may occur more frequently.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)271-273
Number of pages3
JournalKorean Journal of Family Medicine
Volume43
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2022

Keywords

  • Blood Orange
  • Case Report
  • Citrus
  • Hand Sanitizers
  • Phytophotodermatitis

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Family Practice

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