Dermatologic hazards from ethylene oxide.

The more recent application of ethylene oxide as a gas sterilizing agent for medical supplies has introduced new problems for this old chemical. Not only is ethylene oxide a potent skin irritant but also delayed hypersensitivity and immediate hypersensitivity have been reported, In this article, chemical properties of this agent and sources of industrial exposure are discussed, and the literature regarding ethylene oxide dermatitis is reviewed.