Frequency of Allergic Contact Dermatitis in Patients with Hand Eczema

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of allergic contact dermatitis in patients with hand
eczema by using patch test.
Material & Methods: This was a descriptive case study conducted at the Department of
Dermatology, SIMS/Services Hospital, Lahore. Fifty patients with the clinical suspicion of allergic
contact dermatitis of hand, aged 12 years and above of either sex were enrolled. Patients with
active eczema, using oral corticosteroids and other immune-suppressive drugs as well as
pregnant females were excluded from the study. The allergens used were from European
Standard Series, from corticosteroid and cutaneous drug reaction series.
Results: There were 50 patients, 25 males and 25 females. Their age ranged from 16 to 66
years. Mean duration of disease was 3 years. Regarding occupation there were 15 house-wives,
7 masons, 7 shopkeepers, 4 factory workers, 4 students, 4 teachers, 3 doctors and others. A
personal or family history of atopy was seen in 2 (4%) patients. Thirty patients (60%) reacted
positively to various allergens, 14 (28%) patients to fragrance mix, 8 (16%) to potassium
dichromate, 7 (14%) patients to nickel sulphate, 7 (14%) patients to paraben mix, 6 (12%) patients
to phenylenediamine, 5 (10%) patients to cobalt chloride, 4 (8%) patients to mercapto mix and 4
(8%) patients to propylene glycol and others.
Conclusion: Patients with hand eczema should be subjected to patch test with various
allergens to determine its cause and measures taken to avoid them.