Diagnosis of contact allergy in practice using current guidelines
Dickel H, Mahler V (2020)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2020
Journal
DOI: 10.1007/s00105-019-04528-8
Abstract
Background In the case of a contact allergy, there is only allergen avoidance instead of causal therapy. If the allergen is not identified, dermatitis persists, which is a major burden for patients. Patch testing is the diagnostic standard for detecting contact sensitization. Based on a systematic literature search, the German patch test guideline was updated and methodologically upgraded. Objectives The most important practical aspects of patch testing with contact allergens and drugs are presented. Materials and methods Current consensus guidelines for performing patch tests as well as the results of a supplementary selective literature search are summarized. Results According to the patch test guideline (AWMF registry no. 013-018, 2019), the baseline series, special series and, if necessary, test preparations prepared from the patient's own contact substances should be tested routinely. A new evidence-based recommendation is a late reading after 7-10 days, as otherwise numerous patch test reactions will be missed. Antihistamines may weaken the cellular reactions of the patch test and should be discontinued with a latency of 5 half-lives. Finally, if a false-negative patch test result is suspected, it is recommended to perform a strip patch test according to the validated protocol. Conclusions All patients with a suspected contact allergy should receive a guideline-based patch test at an early stage. Targeted patch testing identifies clinically relevant allergens and provides suggestions for further systematic investigations.
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Germany (DE)How to cite
APA:
Dickel, H., & Mahler, V. (2020). Diagnosis of contact allergy in practice using current guidelines. Hautarzt. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00105-019-04528-8
MLA:
Dickel, H., and Vera Mahler. "Diagnosis of contact allergy in practice using current guidelines." Hautarzt (2020).
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