The study from the University of California in San Diego confirmed that systematic patch testing is a necessity in children with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, given the high rate of contact allergy among this group of patients.
Researchers studied 101 paediatric patients with suspected allergic contact dermatitis, 53% of whom had atopic dermatitis; the remainder had non-atopic dermatitis and acted as controls. All participants underwent patch testing.
At least one allergen reaction was noted in 89% of the patients who had atopic dermatitis and in 66% of those with non-atopic dermatitis.
Researchers concluded that the tests were necessary for atopic patients given the high rate of allergic reaction. They said testing was necessary in children whose condition is refractory to treatment or suggestive of allergic contact dermatitis.
Herro EM, Matiz C, Sullivan K et al. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol 2011; 4: 39-41
