Topical povidone-iodine ointment resulting in irritant contact dermatitis of the pinna in a 12-year-old boy

Povidone-iodine is widely used as an antiseptic and disinfectant. It is available in different forms such as aqueous solution, ointment, tincture, or foam. Povidone-iodine is the most commonly used antiseptic scrubbing solution before performing surgeries. The shortcomings of iodine preparation although rare, irritation to the skin is usually due to oxidative effects of topical iodine preparations such as irritant effects and short-lasting actions are not well known. Nevertheless, allergic contact dermatitis caused by povidone-iodine has not been widely documented in medical literature. In this instance, we present a case of an individual allergic to povidone-iodine who experienced a severe form of contact dermatitis on the pinna and surrounding area subsequent to its local application.