Patch Testing to Determine Causative Contact Allergens in Patients with Periocular Dermatitis / 대한피부과학회지

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Periocular dermatitis (PD) is a common condition and can be classified as either allergic or non-allergic. Because the periocular region is one of the most sensitive areas of the skin, contact with any environmental or therapeutic allergen may give rise to dermatitis. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical usefulness of patch testing to determine sensitivity to contact allergens in PD patients. METHODS: Patch testing was conducted in 29 PD patients using the T.R.U.E. test(R) at Pusan National University Hospital. We examined the results of patch testing, the probable cause of PD, and the history of use of ophthalmic medication. RESULTS: Contact hypersensitivity was detected using the T.R.U.E. test(R) in 62.1% (18/29) of the patients, and contact hypersensitivity to specific ophthalmic medications was observed in 33.3% (3/9) of the patients with a history of using ophthalmic medication. CONCLUSION: We suggest that patch testing can be utilized to elucidate the relevant contact allergen in patients with PD. Patch testing with specific ophthalmic medications is valuable to determine allergic reactions in patients who have used ophthalmic medications.