Isothiazolinones in cleaning products: Analysis with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry of samples from sensitized patients and market

Abstract

Background Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and methylisothiazolinone (MI) contact dermatitis is a severe problem. The high concentrations of these substances and other isothiazolinones such as benzisothiazolinone (BIT) and octylisothiazolinone (OIT) contained in cleaning products may cause allergic contact dermatitis in sensitized patients. Objectives To evaluate the exposure to isothiazolinones contained in cleaning products on the market and from sensitized patients, and to verify the accuracy of labeling. Methods A total of 34 cleaning products were collected (17 supplied by sensitized patients and 17 bought randomly). Analysis was made of the concentrations of MI, MCI, BIT, and OIT using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). Results MI and BIT were the components most frequently detected. Of all the products analyzed, 76.5% contained at least one isothiazolinone. Twelve products had an MI concentration above the permitted level for rinse‐off cosmetics. Most of them were coming into direct contact with the skin in daily use. Mislabeling occurred in eight products. Conclusions Some cleaning products with high concentrations of isothiazolinones may cause cutaneous symptoms in sensitized patients, especially in spray form. The labeling should be correct, also regarding the use of each article.

Pediatric allergic contact dermatitis. Part I: Clinical features and common contact allergens in children

“…112 Sources include rinse-off products such as shampoos, conditioners, soaps, nail polish, 113 laundry detergents, 104 and household cleaning products. 114,115 MI is also found in paints and glues, explaining numerous cases of hand dermatitis from homemade slime containing these preservatives. 34…”

A review of contact dermatitis

“…[36][37][38] In cleaning products, isothiazolinones, including benzisothiazolinone (BIT) and octylisothiazolinone may be found in high concentration, beyond what can be rinsed off. 39 In 1 study of 34 products, 17 of which were selected at random, 76.5% contained at least 1 isothiazolinone, with MI and BIT most frequently detected by means of mass spectroscopy. 39 BIT is not tested in routine patch test series; thus, clinicians should have a high index of suspicion.…”

“…39 In 1 study of 34 products, 17 of which were selected at random, 76.5% contained at least 1 isothiazolinone, with MI and BIT most frequently detected by means of mass spectroscopy. 39 BIT is not tested in routine patch test series; thus, clinicians should have a high index of suspicion. 39…”

“…39 BIT is not tested in routine patch test series; thus, clinicians should have a high index of suspicion. 39…”

What Is New in Occupational Allergic Contact Dermatitis in the Year of the COVID Pandemic?

“…The wide usage of isothiazolinones as preservatives has resulted in occupational exposure in other professions as well. Numerous reports of these substances in cleaning products place cleaning professionals at particular hazard [86,87]. Products used in metalworking may also contain isothiazolinones, including emulsifying oils and stainless steel aerosol sprays [88,89].…”