Prospective observational case series of povidone iodine-induced contact dermatitis

Background Povidone iodine (PVI) is a broad-spectrum bactericidal agent and is also effective against viruses, protozoans, and fungi. With this advantage comes the disadvantage of irritation at the site of application. The sensitization rate of PVI was found to be 0.7%. Aim The aim of this study was to identify the cases of contact dermatitis (CD) due to PVI and to study the various clinical patterns, severities, and causalities of the cases. Settings and design This study is a prospective observational case series report. Method Thirty patients diagnosed with CD due to PVI were included in the study and evaluated on the basis of causality, severity, and preventability with standardized questionnaires like Naranjo’s algorithm and WHO causality scale, Hartwig–Shigel severity scale, and modified Schumock and Thorton scale for preventability, and they were followed up at days 5 and 10. Results and conclusion Male patients dominated the study population (M : F, 3 : 2), and the most frequently encountered age group was 20–50 years. The most common locations of CD were the lower limb (50%), trunk (31.81%), and upper limb (18.19%). The concentration of PVI used for all of the cases was 10%, and similar brands of PVI were used on all patients. Eighteen cases were mild and 12 were moderately severe on the Hartwig scale. Causality assessment was performed using Naranjo’s algorithm and the WHO causality scales. It was found that all cases were probable on Naranjo’s algorithm and possible on the WHO causality scale. The cases were found to be preventable on the modified Schumock and Thornton scale. All cases were avoidable according to the P-method. PVI is the most common antiseptic used in the surgical field, and sensitization to PVI is not uncommon, as mentioned in the literature. A PVI concentration of 10% has a higher propensity for causing side effects, but it also has a higher efficacy in reducing the bacterial load.