Evaluation of Patch Test Results in Paediatric Patients in a Tertiary Dermatology Clinic

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Allergic contact dermatitis is common in childhood as well as in adulthood. Children could be affected by numerous allergens. Allergen sources could change by region. In this study, we aimed to identify the most common allergens that cause contact sensitivity in paediatric patients in our region to make a standardized patch test series and define the ways of exposure to these allergens. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between June 2013 and January 2021, a total of 61 patients’ European baseline series patch test results were evaluated. RESULTS: Among 61 patients, 36 (%59) were female and 25 (%41) were male. The mean age was 10.4 years. Positivity with at least one allergen was present in 39 (64%) cases. The most common allergens with positive reactions were balsam of Peru (BOP) in 11 (18%) patients, nickel in eight (13.1%) patients, and fragrance mix-1 in seven (11.4%) patients. No statically significant difference was found between patch test results and gender (P = 0.109), atopy (P = 0.774), atopic dermatitis (P = 0.662), hobby (P = 0.377) and side of lesions (P = 0.826). However, there was a significant relationship between the duration of complaints and patch test results (P = 0.007). CONCLUSION: The responsible allergen in paediatric patients may vary especially by region, thus this could be challenging for diagnosis. Therefore, each region should create its own specific standardized paediatric patch tests.