Methyldibromoglutaronitrile (Euxyl K 400): an important "new" allergen in cosmetics.

Abstract

Euxyl K 400 is a preservative system for cosmetics and toiletries that contains phenoxyethanol and methyldibromoglutaronitrile in a 4:1 ratio. In The Netherlands, Italy, and Germany, the prevalence of allergy to Euxyl K 400 has risen in the past 4 years and is currently 2% to 4% in patients suspected of having contact dermatitis. The allergenic ingredient is nearly always methyldibromoglutaronitrile. Causative products include both stay-on and rinse-off cosmetics and moistened toilet tissue. Because the causative products usually give false-negative reactions, the allergen, methyldibromoglutaronitrile, should be tested in all patients suspected of having cosmetic dermatitis and in those with perianal dermatitis. We suggest a test concentration of 0.3% to 0.5% in petrolatum.

• Authors: A C De Groot, C J van Ginkel, J W Weijland
• Journal: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (J Am Acad Dermatol) Vol. 35 Issue 5 Pt 1 Pg. 743-7 (Nov 1996) ISSN: 0190-9622 [Print] United States
• PMID: 8912570 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Allergens
• Cosmetics
• Nitriles
• Preservatives, Pharmaceutical
• 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane

Topics

• Allergens (adverse effects)
• Cosmetics (adverse effects)
• Dermatitis, Contact (diagnosis, etiology)
• Humans
• Nitriles (adverse effects)
• Patch Tests
• Preservatives, Pharmaceutical (adverse effects)