Allergic contact dermatitis in children: common allergens and treatment: a review.
OBJECTIVE
The following study reviews the recent literature pertaining to allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) in the pediatric population. This study also provides an overview of the most common allergens and discusses various therapeutic modalities.


RESULTS
The pathophysiology of ACD is intricate and multifaceted, resulting in a characteristic, delayed inflammatory response. Although commonly recognized in adults, its existence in the pediatric population was questioned. Recent literature suggests that pediatric ACD exists and is more common than previously recognized. The diagnosis relies on the clinical presentation combined with appropriate use and interpretation of a patch test. Although many studies have investigated ACD in children, few have documented the relevance of positive patch test reactions until recently. The most current prevalence estimates of positive patch test reactions range from 14 to 70% of children patch tested. Although that range is broad, these studies have demonstrated the relevance of positive reactions and confirmed ACD as a disease entity in children.


CONCLUSIONS
ACD is a previously underrecognized disease process in the pediatric population that can manifest as a serious dermatologic challenge for both patients and physicians. This review will address the prevalence, diagnostic methods, frequent allergens and treatment options in pediatric ACD.
Lee
Pristine W
PW
Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California 92123, USA.
Elsaie
Mohamed L
ML
Jacob
Sharon E
SE
D000485:Allergens; D019703:Calcineurin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D065095:Calcineurin Inhibitors; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003877:Dermatitis, Contact / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000276:immunology* / Q000628:therapy*; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006633:Histamine Antagonists / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D010328:Patch Tests; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000485:Allergens; D065095:Calcineurin Inhibitors; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D006633:Histamine Antagonists; D019703:Calcineurin