Update on Contact Sensitization in the Older Adult Population

Little is known about the epidemiology of allergic contact dermatitis in the aging US population.

The aim of this study was to describe patch test results in a cohort of older adult patients evaluated in a patch testing clinic in a tertiary medical center.

This study was a retrospective analysis of patch test results of adults 65 years and older from February 2013 to December 2019.

Data from a total of 169 patients 65 years and older were analyzed. Of these patients, 84.6% (143/169) had 1 or more positive reactions on patch testing, 84.6% (121/143) of which were felt to be clinically relevant and received a final diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis. The most common allergen categories were fragrances (30.1%), preservatives (20.8%), metals (11.0%), medicaments (8.3%), and textile dyes (6.5%). The most common individual allergens were Myroxylon pereirae resin (balsam of Peru), hydroperoxide of linalool, methylisothiazolinone, nickel sulfate, and fragrance mix I. Personal products were by far the most common presumed source of allergen exposure.

Allergic contact dermatitis is a common diagnosis in the older adult population, and patch testing with allergen avoidance counseling can be an important diagnostic step and potential cure for this allergic condition.