National rates and regional differences in sensitization to allergens of the standard series

Abstract

Sensitization rates to contact allergens vary between centers and are influenced by sex and age. Eliminating the latter 2 factors by standardization of data by age and sex, the present analysis addresses possible differences between centers remaining after elimination of these confounders, and analyzes other factors which might influence rates, e.g., the MOAHL index. Overall standardized rates were well within the range reported in previous studies and may be regarded as representing the rates of the "patch test population" in Central Europe (e.g., nickel sulfate 12.9%, fragrance mix 10.5%, balsam of Peru 7.3%, thimerosal 5.6%). For this analysis, data of those departments which contributed more than 2000 patients, or of those with extreme proportions concerning sex, age and occupational cases were selected. Patients from these 10 departments differed considerably with regard to the items of the MOAHL index and with regard to standardized rates. The items of the MOAHL index proved to be suitable for describing different patch test populations and for explaining some differences between centers. Only 'atopic dermatitis' seems to have little influence on (standardized) rates. Face dermatitis is not yet represented in the MOAHL index, but should be included, together with age > 40 years, in an extended index (acronym: MOAHLFA). Regional allergen exposure (with striking differences between East Germany, West Germany and, to a lesser extent, Austria) seems to have a great influence on the sensitization pattern observed in a department. In addition, sociological factors may influence sensitization rates, which is exemplified by high rates of nickel allergy in a socially defined subgroup. Future studies should focus on these factors, as well as on factors concerning patch test practices and quality control.

Contact Sensitivity in Patients with Psoriasis in Vojvodina

“…The application of PAFS on the prevalence of sensitization is highly recommended, since remaining differences can no longer be attributed to age and sex, but to other factors such as occupation, atopy, hand or leg dermatitis (e.g. MOAHL index) and the genetic susceptibility of the test population [28]. Thus, exclusions from the study that we made at baseline were followed by standardization.…”

Contact allergies to metal components of the 316 L steel in patients with coronary heart disease

“…Sensitization to components of stainless steel is common. Within the patch test population of the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK, http://www.ivdk.gwdg.de) nickel is the most frequently found allergen showing sensitization rates of 13 ± 17% [2,21]. Sensitization to nickel is far more frequent in women.…”

The Epidemiology of Fragrance Allergy: Questions and Needs

“…increased awareness of reactions to cosmetics). It should be added that, in many papers concerning the so-called patch test population [12], little information is provided about the reasons for testing and the clinical manifestations in the tested population. It has been noted that sensitization rates in a vaguely defined test population can hardly reflect the number of clinically relevant sensitizations in the general population [13].…”