title: Sensitization to propolis in 1255 children undergoing patch testing.
abstract: To investigate the frequency and the features of contact sensitization to propolis in children, we patch tested 1255 consecutive children suspected of allergic contact dermatitis with propolis 20% petrolatum over an 8-year period (1995-2002). Positive responses were observed in 5.9% of patch-tested subjects, with a significantly higher frequency in boys than in girls. The dermatitis was localized mainly on the face, hands and limbs. A significant linear increase in the annual frequency of propolis allergy was noted. Confirming literature data, a significant association with balsam of Peru sensitivity was present in children reacting to propolis, linked to the presence of common constituents in the 2 substances. In conclusion, based on our data, we suggest that propolis should not be used in topical products for children because of its high sensitization rate at the paediatric age.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41100 Modena, Italy.
authors.forename: Francesca
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Giusti
authors.forename: Roberta
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Miglietta
authors.forename: Patrizia
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Pepe
authors.forename: Stefania
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Seidenari
mesh_terms: D000485:Allergens / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001453:Balsams / Q000009:adverse effects; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000453:epidemiology*; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000453:epidemiology; D005148:Facial Dermatoses / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D006229:Hand Dermatoses / Q000453:epidemiology; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007558:Italy / Q000453:epidemiology; D007868:Leg Dermatoses / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D010328:Patch Tests / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011429:Propolis / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012737:Sex Factors; D034941:Upper Extremity / Q000473:pathology
chemical_list: D000485:Allergens; D001453:Balsams; C025080:Peruvian balsam; D011429:Propolis