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Patch testing in children--recommendations of the German Contact Dermatitis Research Group (DKG)
Margitta Worm1, Werner Aberer, Monika Agathos
1Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Charité, Berlin, Germany. margitta.worm@charite.de
Insights
Patch testing is crucial for diagnosing allergic contact dermatitis in children. A standard panel of 12 allergens, with four additional ones for specific cases, is recommended for accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dermatology
- Allergology
Background:
- Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is common in children.
- Accurate diagnosis of ACD in pediatric populations is essential for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To recommend a standardized patch testing protocol for children.
- To identify key contact allergens relevant to pediatric ACD.
Main Methods:
- Patch testing applied for 24 hours.
- Allergen readings performed at 48 and 72 hours.
- A standard series of 12 contact allergens proposed for children aged 6-12 years, with four additional allergens for specific indications.
Main Results:
- The proposed panel aims to systematically investigate pediatric ACD.
- Standardized testing facilitates the identification of relevant allergens in children.
Conclusions:
- Standardized patch testing is vital for diagnosing allergic contact dermatitis in children.
- A recommended panel and protocol can improve the identification of causative allergens.
Abstract:
Allergic contact dermatitis occurs frequently in children. Patch testing is needed to identify the responsible allergens and should be performed in children. We recommend a panel of 12 contact allergens as a standard series in children from 6-12 years. Four additional contact allergens should be tested in case of a positive history or suggestive clinical picture. For patch testing in children, the allergens should be applied for 24 hours and the readings should be performed at 48 and 72 hours. Standardized patch testing makes it possible to systematically investigate allergic contact dermatitis and identify relevant allergens in children.
