Methyldibromoglutaronitrile/phenoxyethanol (Euxyl K 400) is a preservative found in both personal care products and industrial sources. Although Euxyl K 400 initially appeared to have low sensitizing potential, increased prevalence of contact allergy to Euxyl K 400 led to regulatory intervention. This review summarizes the history, epidemiology, and management of contact allergy to Euxyl K 400. Issues related to patch-test preparations are also discussed.
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