[Diagnostic keys for disseminated eczema: experience of a Dermatitis Contact unit (2003-2019)]

The aim of this study was to establish the diagnoses of patients with disseminated eczema and analyze the allergens involved in disseminated eczema due to allergic contact dermatitis. We analyzed the data from patients with a diagnosis of disseminated / generalized eczema who had undergone anamnesis, physical examination and patch tests in a Contact Dermatitis consultation from 2003 to 2019. Allergic contact dermatitis was the most frequent diagnosis, folowed by atopic dermatitis, asteatotic eczema, and gravitational eczema. The allergens most frequently involved in allergic contact dermatitis were isothiazolinones, topical medications, paraphenylenediamine, and fragrances. Allergic contact dermatitis caused almost half of the cases of disseminated eczema. It would be therefore advisable for patients with disseminated eczema to be assessed at a Contact Dermatitis unit and undergo patch tests.