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Patch testing with preservatives, antimicrobials and industrial biocides. Results from a multicentre study
The British Journal of Dermatology
|May 15, 1998
Summary
This study on allergic contact dermatitis found preservatives like thiomersal and MDBGN/PE cause sensitization. While most preservatives have low public health impact, they are crucial for accurate patch testing.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Preservatives are known to have allergenic potential.
- Allergic contact dermatitis is a common skin condition.
- Identifying causative agents is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of various preservatives in suspected allergic contact dermatitis.
- To determine sensitization rates to different preservative groups.
- To evaluate the diagnostic importance of preservatives in patch testing.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of patch test data from 28,349 patients tested with standard series preservatives.
- Evaluation of data from 11,485 patients tested with a preservative series.
- Inclusion of data from 1787 patients tested with an industrial biocide tray.
Main Results:
- Standard series preservatives showed sensitization rates over 1%, with thiomersal highest (5.3%).
- Key allergens in the preservative series included alkylaminobenzoate, MDBGN/PE, and benzalkonium chloride.
- Glutaraldehyde demonstrated an increasing sensitization trend during the study period.
Conclusions:
- Preservatives are significant allergens in allergic contact dermatitis, necessitating their inclusion in patch test series.
- While overall public health impact is low, specific preservatives pose concerns.
- Healthcare personnel are a frequently affected group, highlighting occupational risks.