An unusual complication of late onset allergic contact dermatitis to povidone-iodine in oral and maxillofacial surgery

Abstract

Background Povidone-iodine (PVP-I) is a chemical complex of polyvinylpyrrolidone (also known as povidone or PVP) and elemental iodine. Compounds containing iodine are widely and commonly used as antiseptics and disinfectants. They are available in various forms, such as aqueous solution, tincture, aerosol, ointment or foam. Skin irritation is due to the oxidative effects of iodine. Because of the low free iodine concentration in povidone-iodine, skin irritation is less frequent from short contact (Chambers, Basic and clinical pharmacology, 8th ed, 2001, p. 852).