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The Prevalence of Allergic Contact Sensitization in a General Population in Tromsø, Norway

The Prevalence of Allergic Contact Sensitization in a General Population in Tromsø, Norway

Lars Kåre Dotterud

Int J Circumpolar Health. 2007 Sep;66(4):328-34.

PMID: 18018846

Abstract:

Objectives:
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.
Study design:
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.

Chemicals Related in the Paper:

Catalog Number	Product Name	Structure	CAS Number	Price
AS244302	Fragrance allergen mix A1			Price

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