cqvip:Contact dermatitis simulating erythema multiforme can be caused by many allerg ens. The chemical agent 1,2-ethanedithiol, which serves as a protective group i n chemical synthesis, has hitherto only been implicated as an irritant. We repor t on a 22-year-old female chemistry student who developed widespread erythema multiforme-like lesions after local co ntact with 1,2-ethanedithiol. Many target lesions were observed bilaterally on her hands, forearms, arms, and on her forehead. One such lesion was histological ly compatible with erythema multiforme. The patient had a positive patch test to 1,2-ethanedithiol, whereas none of 30 healthy subjects showed a positive react ion. However, eight of the 30 controls (26.7%) developed irritant reactions to 1,2-ethanedithiol. Cautious handling of the compound is a prudent precaution.
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