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Seasonal Trends in Patch Testing: A Large Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study
Zvi Segal1, Sharon Baum1, Aviv Barzilai1
1Department of Dermatology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel, Gray Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
The Israel Medical Association Journal : IMAJ
|June 30, 2025
Summary
Patch testing for allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) showed no difference in positive results between summer and winter. This indicates that reliable ACD diagnosis is possible year-round, even during warmer months.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Clinical Immunology
Background:
- Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is a common skin condition diagnosed via patch testing.
- Previous research suggested seasonal variations in patch test positivity, with lower rates in summer.
- Understanding these variations is crucial for accurate ACD diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if there is a significant difference in positive patch test results between summer and winter months.
- To evaluate the reliability of patch testing during different seasons.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of 1142 patch tests from 1128 patients conducted between 2016 and 2020.
- Data included patient demographics and patch test outcomes.
- Tests utilized standard series like European, cosmetics, and fragrances.
Main Results:
- Overall, 70.8% of patch tests were positive.
- No statistically significant difference in positive patch test proportions was found between summer (74.7%) and winter (71.4%).
- Seasonal testing rates for most series were similar, except for fragrances.
Conclusions:
- Patch testing for allergic contact dermatitis is reliable regardless of season.
- Summer patch testing does not increase the risk of false-negative results.
- Dermatologists can confidently perform patch tests year-round.
