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Background Rubber additives constitute an important group of contact allergens, particularly in certain occupations. Objectives To collect information regarding the current practice of using a 'rubber series' in Europe, and discuss this against the background of evidence concerning the prevalence of allergy in order to derive a recommendation for a ' European rubber series'. Methods The following were performed: (i) a survey targeting all members of the COST action ' StanDerm' consortium, (ii) analysis of rubber contact allergy data in the database of the European Surveillance System on Contact Allergies, and (iii) a literature review. Results Information from 13 countries was available, from one or several departments of dermatology, and occasionally occupational health. Apart from some substances tested only in single departments, a broad overlap regarding important allergens was evident, but considerable variation existed between departments. Conclusions An up-to-date ' European rubber series' is recommended, with the exclusion of substances only of historical concern. A 'supplementary rubber series' containing allergens of less proven importance, requiring further analysis, is recommended for departments specializing in occupational contact allergy. These should be continually updated as new evidence emerges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Allergic contact dermatitis caused by rubber allergens is common, and causes significant patient morbidity. Contemporary data are important to allow appropriate preventive measures and identification of contact allergy trends. Objectives To describe the pattern of patch test reactivity to rubber allergens, including those in the European baseline series. Methods Data collected by the European Surveillance System on Contact Allergies ( ESSCA) network between 2009 and 2012 from 12 European countries were analysed. Results Contact allergy to thiuram mix declined over the studied time period, with an overall prevalence of 1.87%. The prevalence of allergy to carba mix was 2.29%, and was significantly increasing. Prevalence rates of sensitization to other rubber allergens were largely unchanged. Statistical analysis with the MOAHLFA index confirmed the strong links between rubber allergy and occupational hand dermatitis. Conclusions Changing patterns of allergy to rubber additives have been identified. Inclusion of carba mix in the European baseline series may be appropriate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]