Purpuric irritant contact dermatitis induced by Agave americana

Cutis. 2000 Oct;66(4):287-8.

Abstract

The sap of Agave americana, a popular ornamental plant, may cause irritant contact dermatitis. This rare eruption is typically vesiculopapular; however, a new purpuric variant with evidence of leukocytoclastic vasculitis has recently been reported. We report an additional case of a purpuric eruption associated with severe constitutional symptoms further supporting a possible vasculitic component. Both cases resulted from direct exposure to sap propelled by a chainsaw. We speculate that oxalic acid crystals, which are recognized systemic toxins, are embedded in the skin with resulting oxalism, which may result in vascular damage.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Administration, Topical
  • Dermatitis, Irritant / drug therapy
  • Dermatitis, Irritant / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Leg
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Oxalic Acid / adverse effects*
  • Plants / chemistry*
  • Steroids / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Steroids
  • Oxalic Acid