In ethylenediamine allergic individuals, contact with ethylenediamine from topical medications produces classic allergic contact dermatitis reactions. Usually, the rash is a worsening of an original eczematous condition that was being treated with an ethylenediamine-containing cream.

Mepyramine (Antisan™ cream), an ethylenediamine. Unfortunately, antihistamine creams can occasionally cause contact allergic dermatitis so they should not be applied to large areas, and should be discontinued if they result in a rash. They should be avoided on broken skin. Non-sedating antihistamines

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Last reviewed: October 2023. Author(s): Dr Amanda Oakley, Waikato Hospital, Hamilton New Zealand, 2008; updated by Dr Geetika Seth, Dermatopathology fellow, University of School of Medicine Boston, USA; Dr Sabrina Sapsford, Dermatology Research Fellow, Te Whatu Ora, Counties Manukau; and Dr Libby Whittaker, DermNet Medical Writer, New Zealand (2023)

References. Part 4, Labelling. Medicines Regulations 1984 (SR 1984/143) (as at 07 August 2009) – New Zealand Legislation Regulations

Allergy to paraphenylenediamine, PPD allergy, Hair dye allergy, Allergy to PPD. Authoritative facts from DermNet New Zealand.

Lanolin, ethylenediamine, quaternium-15 and the antibacterial agent neomycin, are all known to be potent sensitisers. Corticosteroid allergy is diagnosed by performing special allergy tests, ie patch tests, and in some cases intradermal tests. There are many topical corticosteroid preparations available; allergy may arise to one or more of these.

Atopic hand dermatitis involving the palmar aspect of the fingers and side of hand

Ethylenediamine in topical antibiotic/steroid creams. Intravenous or oral administration of aminophylline. Neomycin in over-the-counter antiseptic preparations. Intravenous or sub-conjunctival administration of neomycin

Patch testing is undertaken for the investigation and confirmation of substances that produce allergic contact dermatitis. It involves applying diluted allergens for 48 hours and read at 96 hours.