The prevalence of allergic contact sensitization in a general population in Tromsø, Norway.
OBJECTIVE
This study investigated the prevalence of contact sensitization in a general adult population and the relationship between the history of metal dermatitis and sensitization to metal allergens.


METHODS
A cross-sectional population study using patch tests and a questionnaire was conducted among adults in Tromsø, Northern Norway.


METHODS
A random sample of 830 participants aged 18-75 years were invited to participate in the patch testing and completed a 1-page self-administered questionnaire. Of the adults, 531 (64%) were actually TRUE tested (using a standardized, ready-to-apply patch test system) and completed the self-administered questionnaire about ear piercing, metal reactions, skin reactions to different allergens, atopic dermatitis, eczema, cooking equipment and diet.


RESULTS
The study showed that nickel (19.2%; women 31.1% and men 5.0%), fragrance mix (3.4%) and cobalt (1.7%) were the most prevalent allergens causing contact sensitization. For all other allergens, less than 1.1% tested positive. Eighty-four (45.2%) subjects with a positive history of metal dermatitis had negative patch tests.


CONCLUSIONS
Contact sensitization was found frequently in this general adult population, especially to nickel and perfumes with a predominance among females. An eczematous reaction caused by cheap earrings seemed to be the best indicator for metal sensitivity.
Dotterud
Lars Kåre
LK
Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Northern Norway, Tromsø, Norway. larskd@start.no
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003877:Dermatitis, Contact / Q000453:epidemiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D008670:Metals / Q000276:immunology; D008875:Middle Aged; D009664:Norway / Q000453:epidemiology; D010328:Patch Tests; D010476:Perfume; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D008670:Metals; D010476:Perfume