Practice Patterns of Dermatologists in the Pediatric Contact Dermatitis Registry

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pediatric Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Allergic contact dermatitis affects U.S. adults and children equally.
• Limited data exists on pediatric contact dermatitis due to provider geographic limitations.
• The Pediatric Contact Dermatitis Registry was established to address this data gap.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate demographic characteristics, geographic locations, and practice patterns of self-identified pediatric patch test providers in the U.S.
• To assess the current landscape of pediatric patch testing practices.
• To identify potential areas for improving data collection and reporting.

Main Methods:

• A secure online 11-question registration survey was distributed to a wide range of U.S. providers.
• Respondents were invited to join the Pediatric Contact Dermatitis Registry.
• Data collected included provider demographics and patch testing practices.

Main Results:

• 252 providers from all 50 states and D.C. responded.
• Society for Pediatric Dermatology (SPD) members were more likely to use commercially available patch tests (OR 7.14) but less likely to use North American Contact Dermatitis Group standard tests.
• Annual pediatric patch test evaluations ranged from 1,726 to 4,613 children.

Conclusions:

• The frequency of patch test evaluations in children is significantly underreported.
• Insights into provider practices highlight the need for evidence-based modifications.
• Study limitations include survey responder selection bias and a small sample size.