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A controlled study of gold contact hypersensitivity
C Fleming1, T Lucke, A Forsyth
1University Department of Dermatology Western Infirmary, Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
Contact Dermatitis
|April 16, 1998
Summary
Routine patch testing for gold sodium thiosulfate (GST) shows limited clinical benefit. This controlled study found low prevalence of GST hypersensitivity in patients and volunteers, suggesting it
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Gold sodium thiosulfate (GST) is a common allergen.
- Hypersensitivity to gold can manifest through various exposures.
- Patch testing is a standard diagnostic tool for contact dermatitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of gold sodium thiosulfate (GST) hypersensitivity.
- To assess the clinical utility of routine patch testing for gold.
Main Methods:
- A controlled study involving 1203 patients and 105 volunteers.
- Patch testing with 0.5% and 0.05% gold sodium thiosulfate (GST).
- Comparison of patient and volunteer demographics and gold exposure history.
Main Results:
- Positive patch tests to GST were observed in 3.2% of patients and 4.8% of volunteers.
- No significant differences in GST hypersensitivity prevalence were found between patients and controls.
- No significant differences in prevalence were noted across three hospitals.
Conclusions:
- Routine patch testing for gold sodium thiosulfate (GST) appears to be of limited clinical benefit.
- The prevalence of GST hypersensitivity is low in the studied population.
- Further research may be needed to refine diagnostic strategies for gold allergy.