Hand soaps recalled over potential for ‘life-threatening infections'

(WAND) - Soaps sold nationwide are being recalled for concerns they could cause "serious and life-threatening infections." 

DermaRite Industries voluntarily recalled antiseptic and antimicrobial soaps that it said could lead to infections on some open wounds and potentially "life-threatening sepsis" due to contamination with something called burkholderia cepacia complex.

"In healthy individuals with minor skin lesions the use of the product will more likely result in local infections, whereas in immunocompromised individuals the infection is more likely to spread into blood stream leading to life-threatening sepsis," the recall alert said.

Burkholderia cepacia complex is a group of bacteria commonly found in soil and water. Germs can be resistant to antibiotics.

The recalled products were distributed nationwide in the United States and in Puerto Rico and include:

• DermaKleen, an over-the-counter healthcare antiseptic lotion soap with Vitamin E
• DermaSarra, an over-the-counter external analgesic used for temporary relief of itching from minor skin irritations
• KleenFoam, an over-the-counter antimicrobial foam soap with aloe vera used for "handwashing to decrease bacteria on the skin after changing diapers, after assisting ill people, or before contact with a person under medical care or treatment"
• PeriGiene, an over-the-counter antiseptic cleanser for "use in the perineal area."

The company said no reports of infections have been reported so far.

Anyone who experiences health issues after using the product should contact their physician or healthcare provider, the recall stated.

Adverse reactions or quality problems may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.

• Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm
• Regular Mail or Fax: Download form www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178

Full list of recalled products

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