The article reports that a 45-year old bricklayer had a generalized eczema, which he attributed to a corticosteroid injection for a mild dermatitis. One month previously, a burn had been treated with multiple tropical medicaments. Patch tests with a standard series showed allergy to para-phenylenediamine (PPD). Treatment with oral dexamethasone was prescribed to clear these reactions. Other positive reactions were seen to PPD, mercuric chloride, parabens and neomycin. Later once more he came for examination with acute eczema and generalized itching, having accidentally applying a cream containing parabens to his face.