ABSTRACT
Hydroquinone is a phenolic compound widely used in industry as reducing agent, photographic developer, stabilizer in paints, varnishes, motor fuels and oils, as antioxidant for fats, and as an antioxidant and stabilizer for certain materials that polymerize in the presence of oxidizing agents such as resins and plastics. This chapter provides monographs of hydroquinone which have caused contact allergy/allergic contact dermatitis. The monographs present: identification section; contact allergy (general population, patients with dermatitis, case reports and case series); cross-reactions; patch test sensitization; photocontact allergy; and immediate contact reactions (contact urticaria). The identification section presents IUPAC names, synonyms, CAS and EC numbers, structural and chemical formulas, Merck Index monographs, and advises on patch testing. The chapter also covers an extensive amount of information to benefit dermatologists, allergists, and all others interested in drug allergy.
