Chlorhexidine--still an underestimated allergic hazard for health care professionals.

Chlorhexidine is a low molecular weight occupational sensitizer that can cause different delayed and immediate-type allergic reactions including anaphylaxis. It is widely used as an antiseptic and disinfectant and not only in the occupational environment as it is present in toothpaste, mouthwash, nose and eye drops and ointments. We present three cases of occupationally exposed workers with airway allergy to chlorhexidine.