GLUTARALDEHYDE

This patient information on Glutaraldehyde is provided by John L. Meisenheimer, M.D. a board certified Dermatologist and skin care specialist based in Orlando, Florida. This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice or treatment of a dermatologist or other physician.

The results from your patch testing showed a positive reaction (contact allergy) to glutarldehyde. Your immune system reacts with its defense mechanisms with each exposure of glutaraldehyde to your skin. It is unknown why certain individuals develop allergic sensitivities. In some it may take repeat exposures over long periods of time before an allergy develops. Once you have become sensitized (allergic) your immune system always “remembers” and you will be glutaraldehyde sensitive. If you currently have eczema this chemical may be the cause but other factors may play a role as well. The information below will help you avoid this allergen.

This chemical is commonly used for the cold sterilization of medical and dental equipment, and as a disinfectant. It is also used a tan shoe leather.

Where is chemical found?

Antifungal treatment
Clothing tanners
Cold Sterilization solution
Dyes
Embalming fluid
Leather tanners
Liquid Fabric softener
Photographic solutions
Resin
Tissue fixative
Treatment for warts
Wall paper
Waterless hand cleaners cosmetics used in treatment of excessive sweating
X-ray solution

Hints on avoiding chemical:

Choose products listed only on your personalized Contact Allergen Database, which has been provided to you. Products listed on your Contact Allergen Resource Database will be free of Glutaraldehyde and safe to use.
It may take 2 to 3 weeks of avoiding exposure before improvement of your eruption begins.

Other names you may see this chemical listed as:

Cidex
Glutaraldehyde 1% in petrolatum
1,5-pentanedial

Possible Occupational Exposures:

Chemists
Clinical Laboratory and Radiology technicians
Funeral Directors
Hairdressers and Cosmetologists
Mail Clerks
Nurses aids and orderlies
Photographic Process machine operators
Printing machine Operators
Respiratory and Physical Therapists
Stock and Inventory clerks