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Prevalence of positive epicutaneous tests among infants, children, and adolescents
Insights
In a study of 314 children, 20% showed positive results for allergens like neomycin and nickel. Sensitization often occurred before age five, indicating early-onset allergies in pediatric populations.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dermatology
- Allergy and Immunology
- Contact Dermatitis
Background:
- Contact dermatitis is a common skin condition in children.
- Identifying specific allergens is crucial for effective management and prevention.
- Limited data exists on the prevalence and types of allergens in young children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of positive epicutaneous (patch) test results in healthy children.
- To identify the most common allergens causing sensitization in pediatric subjects.
- To assess the safety of patch testing in infants, children, and adolescents.
Main Methods:
- Epicutaneous patch testing was performed on 314 otherwise healthy children under 18 years of age.
- Standardized patch test kits and aluminum chambers were utilized.
- Allergic reactions were assessed based on predefined criteria.
Main Results:
- 20% of the children tested exhibited at least one positive epicutaneous test result.
- Neomycin, nickel, and potassium dichromate were the most frequently identified allergens.
- Sensitization to most allergens occurred before the age of five, excluding fragrance allergens.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of healthy children demonstrate sensitization to common allergens.
- Early-onset sensitization is prevalent, highlighting the importance of early allergen identification.
- The used patch testing materials are safe and well-tolerated in pediatric age groups.
Abstract:
We studied 314 otherwise healthy children younger than 18 years of age with epicutaneous testing, and found that 20% of those tested had at least one positive epicutaneous test result. Neomycin, nickel, and potassium dichromate were the most prevalent allergens detected in our study group. We found that sensitization occurred at less than 5 years of age for all but fragrance allergens. Aluminum chambers and the American Academy of Dermatology Patch Test Kit were found to be safe for use in infants, children, and adolescents.