The Hazards of Moist Toilet Paper

Abstract

Background: Methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI), a common preservative in some brands of moist toilet paper (baby wipes and moist towelettes), has been reported to be a cause of allergic contact dermatitis. However, few cases have been reported in the United States. Observations: We report the cases of 4 adult patients with severe perianal and perineal allergic contact dermatitis seen at our institution during a 6-month period. With patch testing, we identified allergy to MCI/MI, and we determined that all 4 patients were using moist toilet paper. The dermatitis resolved after use of the moist toilet paper was discontinued. Conclusion: This study highlights that the MCI/MI in moist toilet paper can be a cause of perianal and perineal allergic contact dermatitis.

Occupational allergic contact dermatitis: a case report

“…Lichenification and fissures might appear later on. Lesions in ACD are usually localized on those areas of the skin that came in contact with the allergen, however diffuse distribution occurs frequently [1,12]. As opposed to irritant contact dermatitis (ICD), cutaneous manifestations in allergic contact dermatitis have imprecise edges and a tendency to scatter, these features becoming useful in differentiating the two similar diseases [1,13].…”

Amended Safety Assessment of Methylchloroisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone as Used in Cosmetics

“…Cases studies include reports of MCI/MI sensitization from a wide range of materials, including personal care products (including wet wipes), ultrasound gels, paints, glues, cleaners, and industrial biocides. [51][52][53][54][55][56][57][58][59][60][61][62][63][64][65][66][67][68] Dermal sensitization from paint was hypothesized to be from airborne exposure in several patients. 56,58,63,64…”