Abstract
Contact allergy to para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and derivatives is not uncommon in dermatology practice. Sensitization may occur via PABA itself or related para-substituted compounds cross-reacting with PABA. In the last 12 years, 67 patients showed positive patch tests to PABA or isobutyl PABA. Fifty-four had no history of adverse reactions to their cosmetics, including sunscreen products, but did react to several related para-substituted compounds. Therefore, cross sensitization is an important cause of contact allergy to PABA.
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