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[Leg ulcers. Allergologic studies of 359 cases]
S Reichert-Pénétrat1, A Barbaud, M Weber
1Service de Dermatologie, Hôpital Fournier, Nancy.
Annales De Dermatologie Et De Venereologie
|June 3, 1999
Summary
Contact allergy is very common in leg ulcer patients, with over 80% showing positive patch tests. Identifying allergens like Peru balsam, lanolin, and neomycin is crucial for managing these chronic wounds.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Wound Care
Background:
- Leg ulcers represent a significant dermatological condition with considerable socioeconomic impact.
- Complicated leg ulcers, particularly those with contact dermatitis, pose a therapeutic challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of contact allergy in patients suffering from leg ulcers.
- To identify common allergens responsible for contact dermatitis in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- A 5-year study involving 359 patients hospitalized with leg ulcers.
- Standard International Contact Dermatitis Research Group (ICDRG) patch tests and a specific series of 40 tests were performed.
- Contact dermatitis investigations included patients with and without apparent periulcerous dermatitis.
Main Results:
- A high prevalence of positive patch tests (82.5%) was observed, indicating frequent contact allergy.
- Peru balsam, lanolin, and neomycin were identified as the most common allergens.
- A notable rate of contact sensitization to corticosteroids was found, alongside an unusual 5% positive eosin patch test rate.
Conclusions:
- Contact allergy is highly prevalent in patients with leg ulcers, necessitating patch testing.
- Polysensitization is common in patients with chronic wounds.
- A tailored patch test series for leg ulcers, combined with thorough patient history, is recommended for accurate diagnosis and management.