Anaphylactic reaction caused by the UVA absorber disodium phenyl dibenzimidazole tetrasulfonate.

Sir, Adverse reactions from sunscreen ingredients have been increasingly reported, including allergic and irritant contact dermatitis, phototoxic and photoallergic reactions, contact urticaria and even severe anaphylactic reactions (1). UV filters, the active sunscreen components, are more frequently being added to cosmetic products such as lipsticks and moisturizing creams. Moreover, the variety of fragrances, emollients, preservatives and waterproofing additives in these products is infinitely increasing. We here report the first case of a severe generalized anaphylactic reaction caused by the UVA filter disodium phenyl dibenzimidazole tetrasulfonate (PDBT), recently approved for use in the European market.