Researchers of a study found that children with atopic dermatitis (AD) are more likely to have positive patch-test reactions for allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) compared to children without AD. Despite an estimated 16.5% prevalence of ACD in children, less than 10% undergo patch testing for diagnosis. Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School conducted a retrospective study using data from the Pediatric Allergic Contact Dermatitis Registry (2018-2022) involving 912 children, of whom 615 had AD.

Results showed that children with AD had a higher number of positive patch-test reactions and overall positive results compared to those without AD. Both groups most commonly tested positive for nickel as an allergen, with other common allergens including cobalt, fragrances, preservatives, and neomycin. Specifically, children with AD were more likely to test positive for allergens such as bacitracin, carba mix, and cocamidopropyl betaine, and they experienced longer durations of dermatitis before patch testing compared to children without AD. The study highlights the importance of referring children with AD for patch testing to identify ACD as a significant comorbidity.

Reference: Grasso G. Children with AD more likely to patch-test positive for allergic contact dermatitis. Healio. Published October 10, 2023. Accessed July 17, 2024. https://www.healio.com/news/dermatology/20231010/children-with-ad-more-likely-to-patchtest-positive-for-allergic-contact-dermatitis?utm_source=selligent&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=news