Allergic contact dermatitis to Compositae: An Australian case series

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Allergology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to Compositae is triggered by sesquiterpene lactones (SQLs).
• Exposure occurs through direct contact or airborne transmission from ubiquitous Compositae plants and their extracts in products.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate contact allergy (CA) and ACD to Compositae.
• Analysis of patch testing data from a single dermatology center.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case review of patients patch tested to Compositae.
• Data collected from January 2011 to December 2020 in Melbourne, Australia.

Main Results:

• 1.2% (44/3679) of patients tested positive to Compositae.
• Gardening was the primary cause (68.4%), while personal products caused 31.6% of reactions, predominantly in females.
• Facial involvement was significant; common co-allergens included SQL mix, fragrance mix, potassium dichromate, and colophonium.

Conclusions:

• Gardening is a major source of Compositae-induced ACD, with personal products accounting for a substantial portion.
• Limited treatment options necessitate avoidance as the primary management strategy for Compositae allergy.