Changing delayed-type sensitizations to the baseline series allergens over a decade at the Zurich University Hospital.
BACKGROUND
Patch testing detects delayed-type sensitizations and may show changes in prevalence over time.


OBJECTIVE
To compare sensitization prevalence to our baseline series allergens during the years 2000-2004 to results from 1990 to 1994.


METHODS
We analysed baseline patch test series allergens from 2000 through 2004.


RESULTS
4094 individuals were patch tested to the baseline series (mean age 45.4 years, males 41.7%). The highest sensitization rates were found for nickel sulfate (19.3%), fragrance mix (10.4%) and Myroxylon pereirae (7.8%). Compared to 1990-1994, methylchloroisothiazolinone (and) methylisothiazoline (MCI/MI) and neomycin sulfate sensitization decreased and lanolin alcohol, thiuram mix and ammoniated mercury sensitization increased.


CONCLUSIONS
Current sensitization rates are similar to those across Europe. Reduced sensitizations to MCI/MI and neomycin sulfate and increased sensitizations to thiuram mix and ammoniated mercury chloride may well be because of changes in exposure. The current group comprises a higher proportion affected by leg dermatitis and may thus explain the higher sensitization to lanolin alcohol. Comparing patch results over time shows important changes in sensitization prevalence.
Janach
Manon
M
Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Zurich, Switzerland. manon.janach@gmx.ch
Kühne
Andreas
A
Seifert
Burkhardt
B
French
Lars E
LE
Ballmer-Weber
Barbara
B
Hofbauer
Günther F L
GF
D000485:Allergens / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006785:Hospitals, University; D006801:Humans; D006968:Hypersensitivity, Delayed / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D029904:Myroxylon / Q000009:adverse effects; D009532:Nickel / Q000009:adverse effects; D010328:Patch Tests; D010476:Perfume / Q000009:adverse effects; D015995:Prevalence; D013557:Switzerland / Q000453:epidemiology
D000485:Allergens; D010476:Perfume; C029938:nickel sulfate; D009532:Nickel