| Abstract | Kumkum is a commonly used cosmetic in India, traditionally based on turmeric powder, and its ingredients can cause various types of dermatosis. We undertook a study to characterize kumkum-induced dermatitis clinically and to identify by patch testing the allergens involved. In total, 46 patients with kumkum-induced dermatitis (mean age of these cases 46.5 years; female : male ratio 1.8 : 1) were investigated. The forehead was the most commonly involved site (31/46), followed by the glabellar area (16/46), hair parting (6/46), abdomen (5/46), and neck (3/46). Pigmented contact dermatitis was seen in 35 patients (76.1%), and allergic contact dermatitis in 11 patients (23.9%). In total, 25 patients were patch tested. The commonest positive allergic reaction was to thimerosal (18/25, 72%), followed by gallate mix (12/25, 48%). Para-phenylenediamine, Kathon CG, benzotriazol, tert-butyl hydroquinone and parabens gave a reaction for one patient each (1/25, 4%). Patch testing with kumkum was positive in 7 of 13 patients tested. |
| Authors | A K Nath, D M Thappa
(Affiliation: Department of Dermatology and Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Pondicherry, India.)
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| Journal | Clinical and experimental dermatology
(Clin Exp Dermatol)
Vol. 32
Issue 4
Pg. 385-7
(Jul 2007)
ISSN: 0307-6938 England |
| PMID | 17425647
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
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| Chemical References |
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| Topics |
- Adult
- Aged
- Coloring Agents
(adverse effects)
- Curcuma
(adverse effects)
- Dermatitis, Allergic Contact
(diagnosis)
- Female
- Humans
- India
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Patch Tests
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