Clinical Diagnosis of Acute Irritant Contact Dermatitis Following First-Time Deodorant Use: A Case Report.
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Abstract
Background:
Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) is the most common form of contact dermatitis, accounting for approximately 80% of all cases. It results from direct cytotoxic injury to the skin barrier by chemical agents, without involvement of acquired immunity, and may occur after a single exposure. Personal care products — particularly deodorants containing alcohol, fragrances, and preservatives — are a recognized but underreported cause of acute ICD.
Case Presentation:
A 45-year-old male office worker presented with a five-day history of burning sensation, pruritus, and erythema over the upper chest, beginning within hours of first-time application of a commercially available deodorant. He had a background of hyperthyroidism and a family history of allergic eosinophilia, with no prior dermatological disease. Examination showed bilateral broad linear and oblique erythematous plaques with multiple discrete papules confined to the deodorant application site. Routine laboratory investigations were within normal limits. Patch testing was not performed; the temporal relationship, site-limited lesion distribution, and rapid improvement after product withdrawal clinically favoured an irritant mechanism, although allergic contact dermatitis could not be definitively excluded. Treatment comprised immediate product cessation, a short course of oral corticosteroid, moderately potent topical corticosteroid, oral levocetirizine, and regular fragrance-free emollient. Complete resolution occurred within seven days without recurrence.
Conclusion:
First-time deodorant use may be associated with acute contact dermatitis due to potentially irritant ingredients such as alcohol, fragrances, or preservatives. A clinical diagnosis favouring an irritant mechanism may be made in uncomplicated cases with a clear exposure history and rapid resolution. However, allergic contact dermatitis cannot be definitively excluded without patch testing.