Philodendron-induced dermatitis: report of cases and review of the literature

Abstract

Plants of the genus Philodendron, and the family Araceae, were reported as causing dermatitis as early as 1923. The allergenic compounds in philodendrons are resorcinols, which share common chemical side chains with the allergenic catechols of Toxicodendron members of the family Anacardiaceae. I report here two cases of allergic contact dermatitis to Philodendron species commonly found in the Hawaiian islands. Philodendron dermatitis, however, is not confined to tropical or subtropical areas. Exposure may occur in nursery workers in temperate climates and in the home environment worldwide.