(Un)usual effects of patch testing?
BACKGROUND
Little information is available concerning subjective complaints associated with patch testing.


OBJECTIVE
To gather information about the frequency and the nature of such complaints, and to evaluate, if possible, whether the complaints were really caused by patch testing.


METHODS
Four hundred and thirty-three patients took part in a questionnaire study between December 1996 and October 1997. Complaints of itch and other subjective complaints, such as tiredness and feeling unwell, were recorded.


RESULTS
From the total group of 433 patients, 379 patients (87%) recorded one or more complaints on day 0. By day 2 this number was 383 patients (88%), with a significant reduction to 326 patients (75%) by days 3-4. Most complaints concerned itch on the back, and to a lesser extent tiredness. Fifty-four patients (54 of 433; 12%) did not report itch or other subjective complaints on day 0; of this group, 36 patients (66%) developed complaints by day 2. By days 3-4, 24 patients (44%) reported complaints: 20 patients from the day 2 group (37%) and four patients (7%) from days 3-4. Again the largest increase in complaints was found for itch on the back, but other complaints were also found to have increased, mainly tiredness, feeling unwell, headache, shakiness and light-headedness.


CONCLUSIONS
We conclude that patch testing can, in addition to local skin reaction and itch, also cause other subjective complaints in a number of patients.
Kunkeler
L
L
Department of Occupational Dermatology, Academic Hospital Free University, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Bikkers
S C
SC
Bezemer
P D
PD
Bruynzeel
D P
DP
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003877:Dermatitis, Contact / Q000209:etiology*; D005221:Fatigue / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006261:Headache / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010328:Patch Tests / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011537:Pruritus / Q000209:etiology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors