Patch test results in paediatric patients with atopic dermatitis in Laos

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Allergology
• Paediatric Medicine

Background:

• Dermatological services in Laos are concentrated in the capital, with no existing data on common cutaneous allergens.
• Patch testing is not currently available in Laos, limiting the diagnosis and management of contact dermatitis.
• Understanding common allergens is crucial for managing atopic dermatitis in paediatric populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify prevalent allergens in paediatric patients diagnosed with atopic dermatitis.
• To establish baseline data for common contact allergens in Vientiane, Laos.
• To guide clinical advice for families regarding allergen avoidance.

Main Methods:

• Fifty paediatric patients with atopic dermatitis were enrolled.
• Patch testing was performed using TRUE Test® panels 1 to 3, comprising 35 allergens.
• Allergen reactions were assessed on Days 2 and 4 post-application.

Main Results:

• Fifteen children (30%) showed positive patch test reactions on Day 4.
• The most frequently identified allergens were gold (18%), nickel (10%), formaldehyde (6%), and p-Phenylenediamine (6%).
• Other identified allergens included potassium dichromate, cobalt dichloride, Bronopol, paraben mix, fragrance mix 1, and neomycin, each with 2% prevalence. A majority of positive reactions were observed in female patients.

Conclusions:

• This study provides the first documented patch test results for the Lao population.
• Findings highlight key allergens relevant to paediatric atopic dermatitis in Laos.
• Results will inform clinical management and future research on contact dermatitis in the region.