Introduction

Santos palisander (Machaerium scleroxylon), a species of tropical wood originating in South America, is a potential contact aller- gen. Exposure to wood dust or other wood materials can cause numer- ous adverse reactions, such as contact dermatitis, urticaria, photoallergic and phototoxic reactions, and very rarely erythema multiforme. Due to the widespread use of wood of this species, we should be aware of reac- tions that may occur after contact with santos palisander.

Case report

The article discusses a case of a 36-year-old patient in whom erythema multiforme appeared several days after exposure to santos palisander. The patient showed a good response to systemic and topical glucocorticosteroid treatment.

Conclusions

Rare cases of bullous erythema multiforme due to contact with santos palisander have been described. Accordingly, this exotic wood should be noted as a strong contact allergen that can cause not only contact dermatitis, but also severe erythema multiforme-like reactions.