Contact dermatitis from polyvinyl chloride identification bands.

One case of allergic contact dermatitis caused by polyvinyl chloride identification bands is reported. Patch tests in this case were positive for three of four bands tested, resorcinol monobenzoate, and benzoyl peroxide. Manufacturers could not confirm the presence of resorcinol monobenzoate and benzoyl peroxide in their respective bands. It is concluded that the patient's reaction was allergic and due to an unknown chemical(s) in the bands. Additives may comprise a significant portion of polyvinyl chloride bands. These components may be leachable, and thus lead to contact sensitization with subsequent allergy. Although patch testing is an excellent first step in determining the offending allergen, specialized chemical analysis may be required for exact identification.