Chromate-Induced Allergic Contact Dermatitis Treated With Dupilumab

Abstract

Chromate causes persistent, difficult to treat irritant and allergic contact dermatitis in cement-handling occupational workers. When therapeutics such as topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy and immune-modulating treatments like methotrexate fail, many patients are advised that avoidance may be the only remaining option – an option that may be particularly challenging if the patient’s occupation necessitates chromate exposure. We report a case of severe chromate-induced allergic contact dermatitis in a 55-year-old cement mason that presented to the outpatient dermatology clinic with multiple scaly, erythematous, >5 cm plaques scattered over the skin of his hands, head and neck. After a prior failed course of treatment with high potency topical corticosteroid, this patient was successfully treated with dupilumab. Given the success of dupilumab in our patient, we propose the consideration of dupilumab as an alternative treatment option for those suffering from chromate-induced allergic contact dermatitis that is refractory to ultra-high potency topical corticosteroids. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(12):1340-1342. doi:10.36849/JDD.6246.