Screening patch tests for pigmented contact dermatitis in Israel

Pigmented contact dermatitis has been found to be caused by fragrances, cosmetics, washing powders, azo dyes in textiles, and rubber products in selected groups of patients. The aim of this study was to run screening patch tests in an unselected group of patients with pigmented contact dermatitis (n=29) encountered in our center over a 2-year period. The test series included the European standard, cosmetics, fragrance, Scandinavian photo, and personal products. 21 patients had a positive reaction in at least 1 of the series (total, 29 reactions): 16 - standard, 3 - cosmetics, 1 fragrance, 9 photo, and 1 - personal products; 16 (55%) had relevant results. We conclude that the highest yield for screening for pigmented contact dermatitis is achieved with the standard and photo series.