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Patch testing with formaldehyde 2.0% in parallel with 1.0% by the Swedish contact dermatitis research group
Marléne Isaksson1, Johanna Bråred-Christensson, Malin Engfeldt
1Department of Occupational and Environmental Dermatology, Skåne University Hospital, 205 02 Malmö, Sweden. marlene.isaksson@skane.se, marlene.isaksson@med.lu.se.
Acta Dermato-Venereologica
|December 17, 2013
Summary
Higher formaldehyde concentrations in patch testing diagnose more contact allergies without increasing irritant reactions. This suggests re-evaluating formaldehyde-releaser inclusion in standard allergy testing series.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Contact Dermatitis
Background:
- Formaldehyde is a common contact allergen.
- Standard patch testing concentrations may affect diagnostic yield.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the diagnostic efficacy of 1.0% and 2.0% formaldehyde in patch testing.
- To evaluate irritant reactions at different formaldehyde concentrations.
- To assess the relevance of formaldehyde-releasers in the Swedish baseline series.
Main Methods:
- A multicentre study patch-tested 2,122 dermatitis patients.
- Simultaneous testing with 1.0% and 2.0% formaldehyde in aqua using Finn Chambers.
- Quantification of allergen application: 0.30 mg/cm(2) and 0.60 mg/cm(2) respectively.
Main Results:
- 77 (3.6%) patients showed positive reactions to formaldehyde.
- 2.0% formaldehyde diagnosed significantly more allergies than 1.0% (p < 0.001).
- No significant increase in irritant reactions was observed with the higher concentration.
Conclusions:
- 2.0% formaldehyde is more effective for diagnosing formaldehyde contact allergy than 1.0%.
- Higher formaldehyde concentration is safe regarding irritant reactions.
- The findings question the inclusion of certain formaldehyde-releasers in the Swedish baseline series.
