Glutaraldehyde (GA), a potent disinfectant and sterilizing agent extensively used in healthcare settings, has garnered attention for its association with contact dermatitis. This occupational skin condition, often induced by repeated exposure to GA, poses significant challenges to the well-being of healthcare professionals and patients alike. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures against GA-induced contact dermatitis is essential for promoting a safe and healthy working environment in healthcare facilities. A 28-year-old female presented with a severe burning sensation and dark brown patches in the lower chin region, one day following root canal treatment. Based on the characteristic appearance of patches and the typical burning sensation associated with an allergic reaction, a diagnosis of acute contact dermatitis was made. Patch testing by an expert dermatologist confirmed that the patient was allergic to GA. GA, a popular commercial germicidal product, is widely used as a cold sterilizing agent for operative dental instruments. The patient developed a reaction as the endodontic files used during the root canal procedure were cold sterilized with 2% GA. The lesion experienced significant improvement and ultimately healed following the administration of corticosteroids and antihistamines. This report concerns a case of GA-induced contact dermatitis. As GA is being used more widely, particularly in dental clinics, this case was of interest and is reported in the safety interest of patients and clinicians.

Currently, chemical colitis in clinical practice is mainly caused by iatrogenic factors. The disinfectant glutaraldehyde is one of the common drugs that can cause chemical colitis, but there are few reports about it. From August 2019 to August 2022, 1457 cases of colonoscopy were performed in the endoscopy room of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine and Songyang County People\'s Hospital, and 3 cases of chemical colitis caused by glutaraldehyde residue are discussed in this report. All 3 cases occurred on the same endoscopic system and same day. These 3 patients were hospitalized and treated with bowel rest, hydration, peroral Kangfuxin solution, dexamethasone combined with Kangfuxin solution local enema treatment, and empiric antibiotic. In conclusion, standardized management of cleaning and disinfection should be strengthened in departments carrying out enteroscopy, especially those using the concentrated glutaraldehyde immersion solution and cleaning after immersion, to prevent the occurrence of acute chemical enteritis related to disinfectant.

We report the use of glutaraldehyde (GA) in a case of valve repair for mitral valve prolapse associated with active infective endocarditis. GA scrubbed at the site of infection decontaminates and reinforces infected fragile tissue, avoids excessive debridement, and strengthens the edges of valve leaflets to facilitate suturing.