Allergic contact dermatitis in Danish children referred for patch testing - a nationwide multicentre study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dermatology
• Allergology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Contact allergy in children, once thought rare, is now recognized as common and potentially increasing.
• Recent data indicate a rising prevalence of allergic contact dermatitis among pediatric populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the demographics of children undergoing patch testing in Denmark (2003-2011).
• To determine the frequency and clinical relevance of positive patch test reactions in children.
• To identify the most prevalent allergens causing contact allergy in this age group.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of patch test data.
• Utilized the Danish National Database of Contact Allergy.
• Included 2594 children and adolescents aged 1-17 years.

Main Results:

• 25.1% of children had at least one positive patch test reaction, with 66.4% relevance.
• Metals, fragrances, and hair dyes were the most common sensitizers.
• Girls exhibited a significantly higher frequency of positive reactions and allergic contact dermatitis.

Conclusions:

• Allergic contact dermatitis is a significant clinical issue in children.
• Consider contact allergy in children with persistent eczema, especially girls.
• Patch testing is crucial for diagnosis; pediatric patients can use adult concentrations.