Abstract

Background: Polyvinylpyrrolidone-iodine (PVP-I) (Povidone Iodine) is one of the most commonly used antiseptic in the surgical field and is one of the main adjuncts to prevent post-operative wound complications. But very rarely PVP-I usage might cause wound complications in the form of allergic contact dermatitis. Case Presentation: A 54-year-old female diagnosed with ductal carcinoma of the right breast [cT2N1M0] underwent Right Modified Radical Mastectomy (MRM). On the 2nd Post-operative day (POD) there was edema, warmth, erythema and tenderness of both the flaps which continued to progress with new onset bullae and blisters. Patch testing revealed the causative agent to be povidone iodine solution used for painting the surgical site, which caused allergic contact dermatitis. The patient improved with systemic antihistamine, topical steroid cream and saline wound dressings. Conclusion: Allergic contact dermatitis secondary to antiseptics should be suspected in any early wound complication. A simple patch test to PVP-I should be done to screen all patients before elective surgery as this helps in avoiding post-operative surgical site complications.