The use of a hot-iron tape patch has become increasingly popular. The patch is applied to the torn material, a hot iron applied, and the clothing is ready to be worn (Fig. 1). Thermoplastic tapes consist of cloth impregnated with a vinyl resin, a stabilizer, and a plasticizer. The exact formulation was not divulged by the manufacturer. Previous dermatitis due to thermoplastic tape has not been reported.
Report of Case
The patient, a 55-year-old janitor, developed a dermatitis on his back three weeks after repairing his torn shirt (Fig. 2) with a thermoplastic tape. He was patch tested to the laundered tape. It was felt that laundering would eliminate the sizing or finish of the tape and rule this out as an etiologic agent. There was a 2+ reaction to the laundered tape after 48 hours.
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