This is a rare condition reported in the literature that surfaces after
repeated exposure to propolis in a a few people. Reported cases include
beekeepers, musical instrument makers who may have used propolis in their
varnishes and people ingesting propolis extracts.  

  

From direct personal experience, after almost 50 years of contact with
propolis it can crop up more or less suddenly, be very disconcerting at first,
and very annoying. For a few days after contacting proplis, there is a bit of
swelling, redness, then the skin hardens, cracks in a few places and can even
bleed. It is not painful or itchy per se, but not very pleasant. The only
solution is to avoid direct contact with the allergen. So any beekeeping work
has to be done with vinyl or nitrile gloves, trying to prevent ripping.  

  

There are reported allergens of many kinds that can produce this condition,
including some metals like nickel in jewelry, some plant compounds. It differs
from irritant dermatitis in that it requires prior contact with the allergen
and some kind of immune system priming and reaction.  

  

Passing this along in case anyone may be encountering or has encountered this
rare condition. Justin Schmidt addresses the topic briefly in his chapter on
bee products in "The Hive and the Honey Bee"  


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