As I have seen no reference in the literature to picric acid as a cause of dermatitis, and in view of the fact that picric acid is used rather extensively in solution in the preparation of the field of operation and in the treatment for burns, and also in the form of an ointment (butesin picrate) as an analgesic, soothing agent, I shall report five cases of dermatitis which have come under my observation during the last few months, and which I have attributed to the irritant quality of picric acid. I do not think that this condition is found often, because it is manifested only in susceptible persons.1
REPORT OF CASES
Case 1.—
A student nurse, aged 20, was referred by the hospital superintendent on Nov. 17, 1928. She complained of a slightly stinging eruption scattered over the arms, body and neck, which, she said, had disappeared and