Atopy patch test with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dp 1) in atopic dermatitis patients

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Dermatology
• Allergology

Background:

• Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition.
• Identifying specific allergens like Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dp) is crucial for managing AD.
• Existing diagnostic methods may have limitations in pinpointing causative agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the atopy patch test (APT) in detecting Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dp) as a trigger in patients with atopic dermatitis.
• To determine the optimal concentration and reading time for APT using Dp extract.

Main Methods:

• Twenty patients diagnosed with atopic dermatitis and seventeen healthy controls participated.
• Subjects underwent total IgE, specific IgE, skin prick tests, and atopy patch tests with varying concentrations of Dp extract (3,000-30,000 BU/ml).
• Atopy patch tests were read at 48 and 72 hours.

Main Results:

• Atopic dermatitis patients exhibited significantly higher total IgE levels compared to controls (p < 0.05).
• Thirty percent (6/20) of AD patients showed positive APT results at higher Dp concentrations (20,000 and 30,000 BU/ml).
• All positive APT results occurred at 48 and 72 hours, with no positive reactions in the control group.

Conclusions:

• The atopy patch test (APT) with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dp) extract is a valuable tool for identifying triggers in atopic dermatitis.
• A concentration of 20,000 BU/ml and a reading time of 48-72 hours are recommended for optimal APT results in AD patients.
• APT can aid in detecting specific allergens like Dp, contributing to more targeted AD management.