Increase in contact allergy to fragrances: patch-test results 1989-1998.
We report the results of patch tests with fragrance-mix as a part of the standard series carried out over the last 10 years (1989-1998) during routine testing of 6129 patients in our department. 5.9% of the total number of patients who were patch tested were positive to fragrance mix. The sex ratio was 2.3:1 with a female predominance. In 1989-1993, the frequency of contact sensitivity to fragrance mix was 3.9% (4.9% for females and 2.1% for males). This rate rose both in female and male patients during the observed period of time and attained 8.9% (females) and 4.1% (males) in 1994-1998; the overall frequency in 1994-98 was 7.5%. This rising trend, which was statistically significant, might be the consequence of an increased use of cosmetics and toiletries containing fragrances in our population.
Lunder
T
T
Department of Dermatovenereology, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Kansky
A
A
D000485:Allergens / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003358:Cosmetics / Q000009:adverse effects; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008297:Male; D010328:Patch Tests; D010476:Perfume / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012737:Sex Factors; D017524:Slovenia / Q000453:epidemiology; D013997:Time Factors
D000485:Allergens; D003358:Cosmetics; D010476:Perfume