Intervention study to evaluate the importance of information given to patients with contact allergy: a randomized, investigator‐blinded clinical trial*

Abstract

Summary Background In contact dermatitis, it is crucial to understand and remember the outcome of patch testing. Unfortunately, many patients do not remember the results of their patch tests. Objectives Our aim was to evaluate the effects of an intervention programme in which extensive information on specific contact allergy was provided, in individuals with positive patch test reactions. Methods The study was designed as a randomized, investigator‐blinded clinical trial. Participants with positive test reactions were randomized into two groups that received either standard information according to clinical routine or standard information and a reminder letter. Knowledge of contact allergies was evaluated using questionnaires 12 months after inclusion. Results There were 184 adults included in the trial and the response rate at 1‐year follow‐up was 78% (143 of 184). Sixty‐five per cent (45 of 69) in the intervention group and 54% (40 of 74) in the control group reported the correct name of the allergen (P = 0·23). Participants with several – as opposed to few – positive patch test reactions had difficulty in remembering the correct names of the allergens (P = 0·001). Moreover, the type of allergy had an influence on their ability to remember the name of the allergen correctly and their ability to make changes in lifestyle. Conclusions The intervention performed did not significantly affect the participants’ ability to remember their contact allergy. To achieve better knowledge and changes in lifestyle, efforts to inform should concentrate on individuals with several positive patch test reactions, those with particular allergens, individuals over 60 years of age, and – concerning changes in lifestyle – males.

Changes in Product Use and Quality of Life After Patch Testing in Children With Allergic Contact Dermatitis: A Follow-up Survey

“…5 Furthermore, recent prospective studies have demonstrated that patients often struggle to understand and recall the results of a patch test, especially those diagnosed with multiple allergens. 6,7 For many patients, navigating daily decisions about allergen avoidance can be difficult.…”

“…One retrospective study on 1142 children found that over-the-counter products branded as “gentle skin care” still often provoke symptoms of dermatitis 5 . Furthermore, recent prospective studies have demonstrated that patients often struggle to understand and recall the results of a patch test, especially those diagnosed with multiple allergens 6,7 . For many patients, navigating daily decisions about allergen avoidance can be difficult.…”

Impact on quality of life of an intervention providing additional information to patients with allergic contact dermatitis; a randomized clinical trial

“…All patients were patch tested so as to meet the Swedish baseline series criteria of 2014 and the result was assessed as positive or negative. Of these, 46% (184 of 396) were diagnosed with one or more positive patch test reactions and were randomized into two groups, as previously described 14 . Patients with a negative patch test result were excluded.…”

“…DLQI was measured by separate standard questionnaire on both occasions. Information on the patients' recollection of the contact allergy test results has previously been published 14 …”

The importance of provided information in contact allergy: key predictors on the road to success in the control of allergic contact dermatitis

“…In this issue of the BJD , Dizdarevic et al 1 report data from a questionnaire survey used to evaluate the effect of allergen awareness in patients undergoing patch testing. One group of patients was sent a reminder letter with additional test outcome information, in addition to the standard information.…”