Contact sensitization in patients with leg ulcers and/or leg eczema: comparison between centers

Patients with leg ulcers and/or eczema of the legs are at risk of contact sensitization. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the impact of some aspects of practice of leg ulcer treatment and availability of drugs and dressings in a university-based wound care center. These data were compared with those from the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK), where patch test reactions of 3529 patients with leg ulcers and/or eczema of the lower legs were documented. Data analyses showed frequencies of sensitization for single and multiple allergens. The change of treatment modalities may have a positive impact on lowering sensitization rates, but the ongoing use of topical drugs outside wound care centers may be expected to limit the effects of modern wound treatment.