Frequency of sensitization to antimicrobials in patients with atopic eczema compared with nonatopic individuals: analysis of multicentre surveillance data, 1995-1999.
BACKGROUND
Atopic eczema, a multifactorial disease, is influenced by bacterial factors, particularly Staphylococcus aureus. Consequently, treatment includes therapy with antibiotics and nonantibiotic antimicrobials.


OBJECTIVE
In our study the sensitizing potential of some topical antimicrobials was investigated by comparing proportions sensitized to various antibiotics and antiseptics between patients with current or past atopic eczema, and patients who had never had atopic eczema.


METHODS
Data of all patients patch tested in the Departments of Dermatology participating in the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK) between 1995 and 1999 were analysed. Patients with a current leg ulcer or stasis dermatitis that might cause a confounding effect were excluded.


RESULTS
Controlling for the additional confounding effect of sex and particularly age, we did not find that patients with atopic eczema had a generally higher risk compared with nonatopic individuals.


CONCLUSIONS
While the risk of sensitization should always be considered when applying topical therapy, our data-within the methodological limitations of this type of study-would not support a very restrictive use of these agents in the management of atopic eczema.
Jappe
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U
Department of Dermatology, University of Heidelberg, Vosstrasse 2, D-69115 Heidelberg, Germany. Uta_Jappe@med.uni-heidelberg.de
Schnuch
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Uter
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D000328:Adult; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000188:drug therapy*; D003875:Drug Eruptions / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016017:Odds Ratio; D010328:Patch Tests
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local