Contact Allergy in Patients with Rosacea.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Allergology
• Immunology

Background:

• Rosacea is a chronic skin condition associated with impaired skin barrier function.
• This barrier dysfunction can increase susceptibility to allergens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and types of contact allergies in patients diagnosed with rosacea.
• To determine the relevance of identified allergies in the context of rosacea management.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective cohort study was conducted.
• Data from 200 patients with rosacea who underwent patch testing between May 1991 and May 2019 were analyzed.

Main Results:

• 46.5% of rosacea patients had at least one positive patch test, with 15% being currently relevant.
• Common allergens included nickel, cobalt chloride, isothiazolinones, and p-phenylenediamine.
• Metals, drugs, preservatives, and fragrances were significant allergen groups, with cosmetics and topical medications being frequent sources of sensitization.

Conclusions:

• Allergic contact dermatitis is highly prevalent in rosacea patients.
• Patch testing is a valuable diagnostic tool for rosacea patients, especially when their symptoms are exacerbated by topical products.