Trends in patch-test results and allergen changes in the standard series: a Mayo Clinic 5-year retrospective review (January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2010).

BACKGROUND: Patch testing is essential for identification of culprits causing allergic contact dermatitis. OBJECTIVE: We sought to identify trends and allergen changes in our standard series during 2006 to 2010, compared with our previous report (2001-2005). METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of patch-test results. RESULTS: A total of 3115 patients were tested with a mean of 73.0 allergens. Since our prior report, 8 allergens were added to the standard series; 14 were deleted. Significantly higher rates of allergic positive reaction were documented for carba mix, 3%, and Disperse Orange 3, 1%. Rates were lower for 10 allergens: neomycin sulfate, 20%; gold sodium thiosulfate, 0.5%; hexahydro-1,3,5-tris(2-hydroxyethyl)triazine, 1%; disperse blue 124, 1%; disperse blue 106, 1%; diazolidinyl urea, 1%; hexylresorcinol, 0.25%; diazolidinyl urea, 1% aqueous; 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, 0.25%; and lidocaine, 5%. Many final patch-test readings for many allergens were categorized as mild reactions (erythema only). Overall allergenicity and irritancy rates declined significantly since our prior report. Results were generally comparable with those in a North American Contact Dermatitis Group report from 2005 to 2006. LIMITATIONS: This was a retrospective study; there is a lack of long-term follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Since our previous report, our standard series composition has changed, and overall rates of allergenicity and irritancy have decreased. Notably, many final patch-test readings showed mild reactions.

Basics of patch testing for allergic contact dermatitis.

Patch testing is essential for identification of culprit allergens responsible for allergic contact dermatitis. This manuscript reviews how to perform patch testing and how to read and interpret the results.