Allergic contact dermatitis from the preservative 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one (1,2-BIT; Proxel): a case report, its prevalence in those occupationally at risk and in the general dermatological population, and its relationship to allergy to its analogue Kathon CG.

Abstract

Occupational contact allergy to 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one (1,2-BIT, Proxel) is analysed. This compound is widely used in industry as a preservative in water-based solutions such as pastes, paints and cutting oils. The optimal concentration for patch testing proved to be 0.4 g/l (0.04%) in water. In 4 out of 17 patients (23%) at occupational risk (painters, paper-hangers), contact allergy to 1,2-BIT was found. Of 556 consecutive dermatological patients without clear occupational risk, 10 (1.8%) showed positive patch tests to 1,2-BIT; in 3 patients 1,2-BIT contact allergy was related to domestic paper-hanging. Although the chemical structure of 1,2-BIT shows some analogy with the preservative Kathon CG, true cross-sensitivity was found to be unlikely.

• Authors: R J Damstra, W A van Vlotten, C J van Ginkel
• Journal: Contact dermatitis (Contact Dermatitis) Vol. 27 Issue 2 Pg. 105-9 (Aug 1992) ISSN: 0105-1873 [Print] England
• PMID: 1395609 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Preservatives, Pharmaceutical
• Thiazoles
• Kathon 886
• 1,2-benzisothiazoline-3-one

Topics

• Adult
• Dermatitis, Contact (etiology)
• Dermatitis, Occupational (etiology)
• Female
• Hand Dermatoses (chemically induced)
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Patch Tests
• Preservatives, Pharmaceutical (adverse effects)
• Thiazoles (adverse effects)