Description

Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP, povidone) is a polymer that is used in a number of pharmacologic and cosmetic products as a suspending or dispersing agent. Some patients may develop a contact allergy to it.


 

Sources of exposure:

(1) povidone-iodone (skin disinfectant used in surgery)

(2) hair care products (hairsprays, shampoo, permanent wave solutions, other)

(3) food products

(4) oral or parenteral pharmaceutical products

 

Reported reactions:

(1) irritant contact dermatitis

(2) anaphylaxis

(3) urticaria

(4) generalized pruritus

 

Risk factors for contact allergy:

(1) repeated, prolonged exposures over a large skin area

(2) history of allergic rhinitis or atopy

 

Testing to identify contact allergy may include:

(1) prick tests

(2) patch test

 


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