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Patch and prick test study of 593 healthy subjects
S Seidenari1, B M Manzini, P Danese
1Department of Dermatology, University of Modena, Italy.
Contact Dermatitis
|September 1, 1990
Summary
This study identified common allergens in healthy military recruits, finding 12.5% reacted to patch tests. Key sensitizers included thimerosal and ammoniated mercury, highlighting the need for baseline allergy data.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Contact dermatitis and allergies are significant health concerns.
- Establishing reference values for allergens in healthy populations is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Military personnel may be exposed to unique environmental and occupational allergens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of sensitization to common allergens and textile-related chemicals in a healthy military recruit population.
- To identify the most frequent sensitizers within this cohort.
- To establish baseline data for allergy testing in a selected healthy group.
Main Methods:
- Patch testing with the GIRDCA standard series on 593 healthy military recruits.
- Additional patch testing with textile processing and dyeing substances on 336 recruits.
- Prick testing with 8 major allergens on 336 recruits.
Main Results:
- 74 out of 593 recruits (12.5%) showed positive reactions to one or more patch test substances.
- The most common sensitizers identified were thimerosal (28 cases), ammoniated mercury (7 cases), phenol-formaldehyde resin (6 cases), parabens, nickel, and Disperse Red 17 (4 cases each).
- 113 recruits reacted to one or more prick test allergens.
Conclusions:
- Reference values for allergen sensitization in healthy individuals are essential for interpreting results from patient groups.
- Thimerosal and ammoniated mercury are significant sensitizers in this healthy military recruit population.
- Patch testing with textile chemicals revealed specific sensitivities relevant to occupational exposures.