Patch-test results using Korean standard series: a 5-year retrospective review

Abstract

Background: There have been few studies regarding the results of the Korean standard patch test.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to analyze the type and frequency of common contact allergens in Korea and to compare the results with those of previous reports.

Methods: From June 2009 to June 2014, 330 patients with suspected allergic contact dermatitis who visited our clinic were tested using the Korean standard patch test.

Results: The highest sensitization rate was found for nickel sulfate (47.58%). There was a significant gender difference in the prevalence of sensitization to nickel sulfate (OR = 2.41, p = .0004) and wool alcohol (OR = 2.85, p = .0358). Higher sensitization to nickel sulfate (OR = 1.18, p = .0159), 4-phenylenediamine (OR = 1.23, p= .003), tixocortol-21-pivalte (OR 1.48, p = .0212) and lower sensitization to thimerosal (OR = 0.77, p = .0023) were associated with increasing age. Patients with allergic contact dermatitis on the scalp had a significantly higher risk of sensitization to 4-phenylenediamine (OR = 3.07, p = .0013). Patients with allergic contact dermatitis on the hands had significantly higher risks of sensitization to wool alcohol (OR = 3.44, p = .0083), formaldehyde (OR = 2.52, p = .0178), and colophony (OR = 2.05, p = .0499).

Conclusions: These results demonstrate trends in patch test results in Korea and the basis for the presumption of the route of allergen exposure.

Keywords:

• Allergen
• allergic contact dermatitis
• patch test

Disclosure statement

Authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Funding

This study was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korea government (MSIP) [No.2016R1C1B1008288].