A Case of Garlic Induced Irritant Contact Dermatitis

Garlic (Allium sativum) is a member of the Alliaceae family. People have used it for the treatment of dermatological and rheumatological diseases since ancient times. There are publications about the therapeutic use of garlic in literature, but many dermatological side effects, such as allergic and irritant contact dermatitis, generalized urticaria, angioedema, pemphigus, anaphylaxis and photoallergy, can occur after using it as an alternative herbal remedy. The allergenic components of garlic have been recognized as diallyl disulfide, allyl propyl sulfide and allicin. In this case report, we present a 67-year-old man with irritant contact dermatitis following the application of garlic on his sacral region. We are presenting our case because garlic has been used frequently by some patients for treatment.