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Massage therapists are particularly exposed to constituents of massage preparations, wet work and mechanical strain and therefore, at high risk to develop occupational dermatitis (OD).To describe the sensitization spectrum of massage therapists with OD.In a retrospective study, patch test data of patients with OD (128 massage therapists and 24 374 patients working in other professions) collected by the Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK, 2008-2020) were analysed.Hand dermatitis (91.4%) and allergic contact dermatitis (34.4%) were common in massage therapists with OD. Most frequent were sensitizations to fragrances/essential oils which were found in 54 (42.2%) massage therapists and thus, more often than in other patients with OD. Concomitant positivity to several fragrances/essential oils was frequent. In 8 (14.8%) of the 54 massage therapists, sensitizations to fragrances/essential oils were not detected with the baseline series, but only with special fragrance series.Allergic contact dermatitis is common in massage therapists with OD and is mainly caused by fragrances and essential oils. Hence, massage therapists should be aware of this risk. When OD is suspected, not only the baseline series, but also special fragrance series should be patch tested in this occupational group.

Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Obwohl allergologische Erkrankungen zu den wichtigen Gesundheitsstörungen laut ärztlicher Approbationsordnung zählen, ist die Allergologie in Deutschland nicht als selbstständiges Fach im Studium der Humanmedizin verankert. Ziel der Arbeit Da sämtliche Universitäts- und Hochschulstandorte mit dieser Herausforderung umgehen müssen, war es Ziel unseres Lehrprojekts, eine exemplarische und mit allen beteiligten Kliniken und Instituten abgestimmte Koordination und Verzahnung der allergologischen Lehre an einem Standort zu etablieren. Insbesondere Comprehensive Allergy Centers (CAC) bieten eine bereits vorhandene Infrastruktur, in der diese Neukonzeption der allergologischen Lehre auf andere Standorte übertragen werden könnte. Material und Methoden Nach umfangreicher Bestandsaufnahme der aktuellen allergologischen Lehre an der Universitätsmedizin Göttingen wurde im interdisziplinären Konsens ein neues Lehrkonzept entwickelt, durch die Bereitstellung zusätzlicher digitaler Lehr- und Lernanteile ergänzt („blended learning“) und schließlich evaluiert. Ergebnisse Die allergologische Lehre im klinischen Studienabschnitt zeigte eine starke Fragmentierung, die ohne Koordination der zwölf beteiligten Kliniken/Institute und ohne Abstimmung der jeweiligen Lerninhalte stattfand. In der etablierten Struktur des interdisziplinären CAC erfolgte eine Neukonzeption, Koordination und Schwerpunktsetzung der studentischen Lehre zur klinischen Allergologie. Die Bereitstellung von neuen interaktiven Lerneinheiten sowie ergänzender Materialien zum Selbststudium wurden von den Studierenden positiv bewertet. Eine vergleichende Evaluation von Studierenden nach Absolvieren der unterschiedlichen Curricula zeigte signifikante Verbesserungen im Erreichen der gewünschten Lernziele.

Das Kontaktekzem (syn. Kontaktdermatitis) ist eine durch äußere Einwirkungen ausgelöste Entzündung der Epidermis und der Dermis am Ort der Einwirkung. Die beiden Hauptformen sind das irritative und das allergische Kontaktekzem, die neben einer ausgeprägten Verminderung der Lebensqualität auch erhebliche gesundheits- und sozioökonomische Kosten verursachen. Wegweisend für die erforderlichen diagnostischen Maßnahmen sind die Anamnese und das klinische Bild. Eine möglichst genaue diagnostische Einordnung des Kontaktekzems mittels allergologischer Testung ist wichtig für das Krankheitsmanagement, da hier nicht nur die klassische Ekzemtherapie, sondern auch das Meiden der exogenen auslösenden Faktoren von großer Bedeutung sind. Die Wahl der Therapie sollte sich nach der Akuität, dem klinischen Schweregrad, der Morphologie der Läsionen und der Lokalisation des Kontaktekzems richten. Erforderlich ist eine bedarfsadaptierte Kombination aus Basistherapie, topischer, physikalischer und systemischer Therapie, wobei nicht alle Therapieformen gleichzeitig durchgeführt werden müssen, sondern variierend eingesetzt werden können. Primäre, sekundäre und tertiäre Präventionsstrategien zielen auf die Erkennung der auslösenden Noxen beziehungsweise der auslösenden Allergene mit nachfolgender Kontaktvermeidung oder -minimierung. Die vorliegende S1-Leitlinie zum Kontaktekzem soll vor allem Dermatologen, Allergologen sowie allergologisch und berufsdermatologisch tätigen Ärzten eine Entscheidungshilfe für die Auswahl sowie die Durchführung einer geeigneten und suffizienten Diagnostik, Therapie und Prävention zur Verfügung zu stellen.

ImportanceThe common use of isothiazolinones as preservatives is a global cause of allergic contact dermatitis. Differences in allowable concentrations of methylisothiazolinone (MI) exist in Europe, Canada, and the US.ObjectiveTo compare the prevalence of positive patch test reactions to the methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) combination and MI alone in North America and Europe from 2009 to 2018.Design, Setting, and ParticipantsThis retrospective analysis of North American Contact Dermatitis Group, European Surveillance System on Contact Allergies (ESSCA), and the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK) databases included data from patients presenting for patch testing at referral patch test clinics in North America and Europe.ExposuresPatch tests to MCI/MI and MI.Main Outcomes and MeasuresPrevalence of allergic contact dermatitis to MCI/MI and MI.ResultsFrom 2009 to 2018, participating sites in North America and Europe patch tested a total of 226 161 individuals to MCI/MI and 118 779 to MI. In Europe, positivity to MCI/MI peaked during 2013 and 2014 at 7.6% (ESSCA) and 5.4% (IVDK) before decreasing to 4.4% (ESSCA) and 3.2% (IVDK) during 2017 and 2018. Positive reactions to MI were 5.5% (ESSCA) and 3.4% (IVDK) during 2017 and 2018. In North America, the frequency of positivity to MCI/MI increased steadily through the study period, reaching 10.8% for MCI/MI during 2017 and 2018. Positive reactions to MI were 15.0% during 2017 and 2018.Conclusions and RelevanceThe study results suggest that in contrast to the continued increase in North America, isothiazolinone allergy is decreasing in Europe. This trend may coincide with earlier and more stringent government regulation of MI in Europe.

Background: Occupational skin diseases have led the occupational disease statistics in Europe for many years. Especially occupational allergic contact dermatitis is associated with a poor prognosis and low healing rates leading to an enormous burden for the affected individual and for society. Objectives: To present the sensitization frequencies to the most relevant allergens of the European baseline series in patients with occupational contact dermatitis (OCD) and to compare sensitization profiles of different occupations. Methods: The data of 16 022 patients considered having OCD after patch testing within the European Surveillance System on Contact Allergies (ESSCA) network between January 2011 and December 2020 were evaluated. Patients (n = 46 652) in whom an occupational causation was refuted served as comparison group. Results: The highest percentages of OCD were found among patients working in agriculture, fishery and related workers, metal industry, chemical industry, followed by building and construction industry, health care, food and service industry. Sensitizations to rubber chemicals (thiurams, carbamates, benzothiazoles) and epoxy resins were associated with at least a doubled risk of OCD. After a decline from 2014 onwards, the risks to acquire an occupation-related sensitization to methyl(chloro)isothiazolinone (MCI/MI) and especially to methylisothiazolinone (MI) seem to increase again. Sensitization rates to formaldehyde were stable, and to methyldibromo glutaronitrile (MDBGN) slightly decreasing over time. Conclusions: Among allergens in the European Baseline Series, occupational relevance is most frequently attributed to rubber accelerators, epoxy resins and preservatives.

Although allergic diseases are among the most important health disorders, allergology is not anchored as an independent subject in the clinical part of medical studies in Germany.As all universities and institutes face the same challenge, the aim of our project was to establish exemplary coordination and networking of education in allergology at one location in agreement with all involved departments and institutes. Particularly, Comprehensive Allergy Centers (CAC) offer an established infrastructure via which the revised allergology education program can be transferred to other universities.After an extensive inventory of the current allergological curriculum at the University Medical Center Göttingen, a new teaching concept was developed in interdisciplinary consensus, supplemented by first-time provision of additional digital contents ("blended learning"), and finally evaluated.Initially, we observed a high level of fragmentation in the teaching of allergology in the clinical study sections of human medicine, with no coordination between the 12 clinical departments/institutes involved and no coherent framework for the specific learning content. Within the established structure of the interdisciplinary CAC, we revised, coordinated, and defined key areas for improved student education in clinical allergology. The allocation of new interactive learning elements as well as supplementary materials for self-studies was welcomed by the students and positively evaluated. A survey among students after completing the former vs. current curricula showed significant improvements in achieving the desired educational objectives.HINTERGRUND: Obwohl allergologische Erkrankungen zu den wichtigen Gesundheitsstörungen laut ärztlicher Approbationsordnung zählen, ist die Allergologie in Deutschland nicht als selbstständiges Fach im Studium der Humanmedizin verankert.Da sämtliche Universitäts- und Hochschulstandorte mit dieser Herausforderung umgehen müssen, war es Ziel unseres Lehrprojekts, eine exemplarische und mit allen beteiligten Kliniken und Instituten abgestimmte Koordination und Verzahnung der allergologischen Lehre an einem Standort zu etablieren. Insbesondere Comprehensive Allergy Centers (CAC) bieten eine bereits vorhandene Infrastruktur, in der diese Neukonzeption der allergologischen Lehre auf andere Standorte übertragen werden könnte.Nach umfangreicher Bestandsaufnahme der aktuellen allergologischen Lehre an der Universitätsmedizin Göttingen wurde im interdisziplinären Konsens ein neues Lehrkonzept entwickelt, durch die Bereitstellung zusätzlicher digitaler Lehr- und Lernanteile ergänzt („blended learning“) und schließlich evaluiert.Die allergologische Lehre im klinischen Studienabschnitt zeigte eine starke Fragmentierung, die ohne Koordination der zwölf beteiligten Kliniken/Institute und ohne Abstimmung der jeweiligen Lerninhalte stattfand. In der etablierten Struktur des interdisziplinären CAC erfolgte eine Neukonzeption, Koordination und Schwerpunktsetzung der studentischen Lehre zur klinischen Allergologie. Die Bereitstellung von neuen interaktiven Lerneinheiten sowie ergänzender Materialien zum Selbststudium wurden von den Studierenden positiv bewertet. Eine vergleichende Evaluation von Studierenden nach Absolvieren der unterschiedlichen Curricula zeigte signifikante Verbesserungen im Erreichen der gewünschten Lernziele.

Hintergrund Der Zusammenhang zwischen atopischer Dermatitis (AD) und allergischer Kontaktdermatitis ist nach wie vor nicht abschliesend geklart. Studien ergeben sehr unterschiedliche Resultate; sie reichen vom Fehlen jeglichen Zusammenhangs bis hin zu einer vermehrten Sensibilisierung auf multiple Allergene. Konsistente Assoziationen mit bestimmten Allergenen wurden jedoch bisher nicht gefunden. ZIEL: Wir haben eine grose Kohorte von Patienten, stratifiziert nach atopischer Hautdiathese gemas dem Erlanger Atopiescore (EAS), unabhangig von einer aktiven Hauterkrankung, durch Epikutantests untersucht. Methoden Retrospektive Multicenter-Datenanalyse aus funf dermatologischen Zentren in Deutschland mit 4.509 Patienten. Die Patienten wurden nach dem EAS eingeteilt in eine Gruppe ohne atopische Hautdiathese (n = 2.165) und eine mit atopischer Hautdiathese (n = 1.743). Ergebnisse In der Gruppe mit atopischer Hautdiathese zeigten signifikant mehr Personen mindestens eine positive Epikutantest-Reaktion in der Standardreihe als in der Gruppe ohne atopische Hautdiathese (49,1 % vs. 38,3 %). In der logistischen Regressionsanalyse war die atopische Hautdiathese mit einem signifikant erhohten Sensibilisierungsrisiko gegen Methylchloroisothiazolinon/Methylisothiazolinon (OR 2.383) und Methylisothiazolinon (OR 1.891), Thiuram-Mix (OR 1.614) sowie Nickel (OR 1.530), Kobalt (OR 1.683) und Chrom (OR 2.089) assoziiert. Schlussfolgerungen Die atopische Hautdiathese zeigte sich als der wichtigste intrinsische Risikofaktor fur eine Kontaktsensibilisierung gegen einige spezifische Antigene. Eine fruhere oder derzeit bestehende AD erwies sich als weniger relevante Grose.

Background Allergy evaluation by patch testing with povidone-iodine (PVP-I) or iodine remains challenging, because current patch test preparations frequently lead to false positive or irritant skin reactions. Objectives To investigate different preparations for iodine patch tests and to assess their clinical relevance with repeated open application tests (ROATs). Methods We monocentrically analyzed 95 patients with suspected allergy to disinfectants in retrospect who underwent parallel iodine patch testing with four preparations: PVP-I 2% aq., 5% aq., 10% aq. and iodine 0.5% pet. Results In 27/95 (28.4%) patients, we found positive reactions to one of the four test preparations. After ROATs in 22 of these 27 positively tested individuals, only one patient was diagnosed with iodine allergy. In contrast, 31/95 (32.6%) patients showed irritant or questionable patch test reactions on day 2 (D2) and/or D3 and/or D7 to one or more test preparations. Testing with PVP-I 2% aq. resulted in the lowest number of questionable skin reactions while detecting the single allergic patient. Conclusion PVP-I 2% aq. was found to be the optimal patch test preparation. In general, iodine allergy appears to be substantially overestimated, and positive patch test responses to iodine should prompt an urgent ROAT for confirmation before diagnosing iodine allergy. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Kontaktallergien durch die Inhaltsstoffe von Epoxidharzsystemen sind seit über 20 Jahren in vielen Branchen eine der häufigsten berufsbedingten allergischen Hauterkrankungen. Der Arbeitskreis Epoxidharze hat daher seit seiner Gründung im Jahr 2007 als branchenübergreifende, europäische Initiative unterschiedliche Strategien entwickelt, um das Erkrankungsrisiko zu verringern. Sie zielen einerseits auf die Verbesserung der Ausbildung und Arbeitshygiene ab, andererseits auf die medizinische und toxikologische Forschung zur Identifizierung von allergisierenden Epoxidharzkomponenten sowie die Förderung von Alternativen mit geringerem sensibilisierenden Potenzial.

Hintergrund Die Sensibilisierungsraten fur Aeroallergene steigen weltweit. Die Pravalenz nimmt insbesondere in den westlichen Landern zu. Ziel dieser Arbeit war es, (1) Sensibilisierungsraten und (2) Kreuzsensibilisierungsmuster in Haut-Prick-Tests (HPTs) fur die wichtigsten Inhalationsallergene in Mitteldeutschland, angepasst an den regionalen Pollenflug, uber 20 Jahre hinweg zu untersuchen. Patienten und methodik In dieser monozentrischen Studie wurden HPTs fur Baumpollen, Graserpollen und Hausstaubmilben (HDM) bei 4315 Patienten, darunter auch Kinder, mit Verdacht auf Atemwegsallergien von 1998-2017 ausgewertet. Ergebnisse Die Sensibilisierungsraten fur fast alle Aeroallergene zeigten einen signifikanten Anstieg uber die Jahre, ohne relevante Veranderungen der regionalen Pollenzahlen. Die aktuellen Sensibilisierungsraten bei allen symptomatischen Patienten waren am hochsten fur Graser- (55,3 %) und Roggenpollen (59,6 %), wobei die HDM-Sensibilisierung im Laufe der Zeit am starksten zunahm (von 37,8 % auf aktuell 50,1 %). Ein geringer, aber konsistenter Anteil der Baumpollen-sensibilisierten Patienten (3,6-7,8 %) zeigte jedoch isolierte positive HPTs auf Erlen- und/oder Haselpollen ohne Sensibilisierung auf Birkenpollen. Schlussfolgerungen Wir zeigen einen signifikanten Anstieg der Gesamtzahl der sensibilisierten Patienten sowie eine Zunahme der Kreuzsensibilisierung gegen eng verwandte Allergene. Patienten mit ungewohnlichen Monosensibilisierungsprofilen gegenuber haufigen Inhalationsallergenen mussen genauer untersucht werden, da diese Patienten derzeit von klinischen Studien zur Allergen-Immuntherapie ausgeschlossen sind.

Background Sensitization rates to aeroallergens are rising worldwide. The prevalence is increasing, especially in Western countries. We aimed to investigate (1) sensitization rates and (2) cross-sensitization patterns in skin prick tests (SPTs) for the most relevant inhaled allergens in central Germany over 20 years, adjusted for regional pollen counts. Patients and methods This monocentric study evaluated SPTs for tree pollen, grass pollen and house dust mites (HDMs) in 4,315 patients (including children) with suspected airway allergies, from 1998-2017. Results Sensitization rates to almost all aeroallergens have increased significantly over time, without relevant changes in regional pollen counts. Current sensitization rates in all our symptomatic patients were highest for grass (55.3 %) and rye pollen (59.6 %), with most pronounced increases in HDM sensitization over time (from 37.8 % to the current figure of 50.1 %). However, a low but consistent proportion of tree-sensitized patients (3.6-7.8 %) showed isolated positive SPTs to alder and/or hazel pollen without sensitization to birch pollen. Conclusions We demonstrate a significant rise in the total number of sensitized patients as well as increases in cross-sensitization between closely related allergens. Individuals with unusual mono-sensitization profiles to common inhaled allergens should be studied in more detail, since these patients are currently excluded from clinical trials for allergen immunotherapy.

Background Metalworkers are exposed to a variety of contact allergens by handling tools, metals, metalworking fluids (MWFs), oils and greases, rubber materials, and so on. Most large‐scale reports on contact allergy due to MWFs are more than 10‐years‐old, and there are only few studies on contact allergy in mechanics and other metal workers not exposed to MWFs. Objectives To describe a current spectrum of contact sensitization in metalworkers with occupational dermatitis (OD). Patients and Methods Retrospective analysis of patch test data collected by the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK; 2010–2018), stratifying for 804 cutting metalworkers, 2197 mechanics, and 355 other metalworkers. Results Cutting metalworkers were most frequently sensitized to monoethanolamine (12.6%), colophonium/abietic acid (11.4%) and formaldehyde releasers (up to 8.5%) from the MWF series, and formaldehyde (4.6%) and iodopropynyl butylcarbamate (4.6%) from the baseline series. Sensitization among mechanics and other metalworkers indicates possible occupational exposure to MWFs, glues, and resins, although this may not be expected from their job titles. Conclusions The spectrum of MWF contact allergens remained largely unchanged during the last years. Taking a comprehensive occupational history is indispensable in order to not miss relevant allergen exposures.

Background There is considerable variability across European patch test centres as to which allergens are included in local and national cosmetics series. Objectives To propose a standardised, evidence-based cosmetic series for Europe based on up-to-date analysis of relevant contact allergens. Methods We collated data from the European Surveillance System on Contact Allergies (ESSCA) from 2009-2018 to determine which cosmetic allergens produce a high yield of contact allergy. Contact allergens with a prevalence of >0.3% that were considered relevant were included. Rare contact allergens were excluded if deemed no longer relevant or added to a supplemental cosmetic series for further analysis. Results Sensitisation prevalence rates of 39 cosmetic contact allergens are tabulated. Thirty of these allergens yield >0.3% positive reactions and are therefore included in our proposed European Cosmetic Series. Six are considered no longer relevant and therefore excluded. Three are included in a supplementary European cosmetic series. An additional 9 allergens are included in either the core or supplemental European cosmetic series following literature review. Conclusion We have derived a potential European cosmetic series based upon the above methods. This will require ongoing investigation based upon the changing exposure profiles of cosmetic allergens as well as new and evolving substances. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Background In Germany, a multistep approach has been established to prevent work-related skin diseases (WRSDs). Objectives To evaluate the effect of a secondary individual prevention program (SIP) in metalworkers with WRSD and to compare their characteristics with those of participants of a tertiary individual prevention program (TIP). Patients and methods In a prospective cohort study, metalworkers with WRSD of the hands participating either in the SIP (n = 114) or in the TIP (n = 83) were recruited. At baseline and at the respective follow-up 8-12 weeks after the SIP or at dismissal from the TIP (3-4 weeks later), questionnaires were completed and the severity of WRSD was assessed. Saliva samples were collected for assessment of filaggrin (FLG) mutations and an explorative genome-wide association study (GWAS). Results Ninety-three SIP patients (81.6%) attended the follow-up. Disease severity was significantly reduced, and knowledge and protective behavior were significantly improved compared to baseline. Significant differences between SIP and TIP patients were found regarding duration and severity of symptoms, work absenteeism, tobacco smoking, and presence of atopic dermatitis, but not regarding FLG mutations and by GWAS. Conclusions The SIP was effective in metalworkers with WRSDs. Individual factors may influence the course of the disease and the need for the TIP.

BACKGROUND Changing patterns of exposure lead to changes in the spectrum of contact allergy in the general population and in patients patch tested for suspected contact allergy. The main contact allergens (haptens) are assembled in the so-called 'baseline series'. OBJECTIVES To present the current spectrum of contact allergy to baseline series allergens, and its temporal development over the last 12 years, based on data collected by the 56 active departments of the trinational Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK). METHODS Patch-test data, along with core demographic and clinical information, subdivided into 4-year periods for all patients patch tested with the baseline series in the IVDK, were analysed descriptively. Moreover, log-binomial regression analysis addressed temporal trends of specific contact allergies, adjusted for potentially confounding factors. RESULTS Among the 125 436 patients tested with the German baseline series, the most common allergens were nickel (14·7%), fragrance mix I (8·1%), Myroxylon pereirae resin (7·5%) and cobalt (5·2%), with no conclusive trend. The rise and fall of contact allergy to methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MI), following (self-) regulation in the European Union, reflected the MI contact allergy epidemic. Propolis showed a marked upward trend with a prevalence of 3·94% during the period 2015-2018. CONCLUSIONS Decreases in sensitization prevalence likely reflect reduced exposure, with some lag, as seen with hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde. If no (sufficient) decrease can be observed despite interventions, such as for nickel and chromium, affected subgroups should be identified and their causative exposures explored. Finally, increases such as that observed with propolis, certainly warrant targeted investigation of the exposures driving sensitization, and possibly intervention. What is already known about this topic? Contact allergy is prevalent in the general population. Surveillance based on clinical data offers timely information on trends concerning certain allergens or subgroups at risk. What does this study add? This analysis provides an update of the current contact allergy prevalence in Central Europe, including time trends. This study describes the demographic and clinical profile of patients tested from 2007 to 2018. This research identifies contact allergens that require (further) preventive efforts. Linked Comment: Schuttelaar. Br J Dermatol 2020; 183:800-801.

Duftstoffe gelten nach Nickel als die haufigsten Kontaktallergene. Als Beleg hierfur wird oft die Haufigkeit positiver Epikutantestreaktionen auf den Duftstoff-Mix angefuhrt. Gemas der EU-Verordnung Nr. 1223/2009 mussen 26 Duftstoffe auf kosmetischen Produkten deklariert werden, die als signifikante Allergene gelten. Es erfolgt die Uberprufung der Haufigkeit im Epikutantest nachgewiesener Sensibilisierungen gegen Duftstoffe und die Differenzierung zwischen haufig und selten sensibilisierenden Duftstoffen. Er wird eine retrospektive Analyse von Daten des Informationsverbundes Dermatologischer Kliniken (IVDK), uberwiegend der Jahre 2016 bis 2018 vorgenommen. Die Haufigkeit positiver Reaktionen auf den Duftstoff-Mix I hat in den dem IVDK angeschlossenen dermatologischen Abteilungen 2018 mit 5,4 % einen historischen Tiefstand erreicht. Positive Reaktionen auf den Duftstoff-Mix II gehen seit 2013 zuruck und liegen 2018 bei 3,2 %. Das Allergen aus dem Duftstoff-Mix I mit den meisten positiven Testreaktionen ist nicht mehr Eichenmoos absolue, sondern Isoeugenol. Im Duftstoff-Mix II ist Hydroxyisohexyl-3-cyclohexen-carboxaldehyd (HICC) nach wie vor fuhrend. Nur 11 der 26 deklarationspflichtigen Duftstoffe losten bei mehr als 1 % der getesteten Patienten allergische Testreaktionen aus. Der Ruckgang der positiven Testreaktionen auf die Duftstoff-Mixe ist wesentlich auf den verringerten Einsatz von Atranol- und Chloratranol-haltigem Eichenmoos und von HICC zuruckzufuhren. Seit August 2019 ist der Einsatz dieser Stoffe in kosmetischen Mitteln EU-weit vollstandig verboten. Mit einem weiteren Ruckgang der Sensibilisierungshaufigkeit ist daher zu rechnen. Eine differenzierte Betrachtung der einzelnen Duftstoffe unter allergologischen Gesichtspunkten ist dringend geboten.

INTRODUCTION Painters and varnishers ("painters") are exposed to various contact allergens and skin irritants, and therefore, are at risk for developing occupational dermatitis (OD). OBJECTIVE To describe the spectrum of occupational sensitizations in painters and revise the corresponding current patch test recommendations. PATIENTS AND METHODS Retrospective analysis of Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK) data from 2000 to 2019 with focus on male painters with OD, ages 20-59 years (n = 557) in comparison to age-matched male painters without OD (n = 422) and male OD patients who have had never worked as painters (n = 13 862). RESULTS Male painters with OD have a significantly higher rate of allergic contact dermatitis and face dermatitis than male patients with OD who work in other professions. Positive patch tests to epoxy resin, methylisothiazolinone (MI), and methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI)/MI were significantly more frequent in painters with OD than in the other groups. Epoxy resin sensitization was significantly associated with face dermatitis. CONCLUSIONS Epoxy resin, MI, and MCI/MI represent the most important occupational sensitizers in painters. In addition to baseline, resins and glues, and industrial biocides series, the patients' own workplace materials should be tested in painters with suspected OD.

BACKGROUND Preservatives in cosmetics are often suspected as contact sensitizers and hence frequently patch tested in dermatitis patients. Exposure in this field has changed over the course of years. OBJECTIVE To describe the frequency of contact sensitization to various preservatives. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective data analysis from the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK) for the years 2009-2018. RESULTS Frequency of sensitization to methylisothiazolinone (MI) has increased from 2.0% in 2009 to 7.2% in 2013. Since 2014, the rate has been falling again. Increasing the patch test concentration of methyldibromo glutaronitrile (MDBGN) in 2016 has caused a sudden rise in positive patch test reactions from 2.0% to more than 4.5%. Allergic reactions to other preservatives occurred in less than 1% of the patients tested. DISCUSSION Since 2014, the worldwide "epidemic" of sensitization to MI has been subsiding in Central Europe, thanks to corresponding restrictions on use. Since 2008, there is no longer any widespread exposure to MDBGN; the new, higher test concentration elicits many false-positive test reactions and explains the sudden rise in positive patch test reactions since 2016. Despite widespread use, phenoxyethanol, benzoates, benzyl alcohol, parabens and sorbates rarely cause allergic reactions. Therefore, they can be recommended for cosmetics from the epidemiological-allergological point of view.

Background Sensitization to methylisothiazolinone (MI) has seen an exceptional epidemic, mainly attributed to its use in cosmetics. Objectives To trace the epidemic of MI allergy (2009-2018), and to analyze a possible change of patients' characteristics. Methods Informationsverbund Dermatologischer Kliniken-data of patients patch tested between 2009 and 2018 with MI (0.05% aq.) were analyzed concerning anamnestic items and sensitization frequencies. Results Overall, 4.9% reacted positive to MI. Comparing sensitization to MI in three periods (2009, 2013/14, and 2017/18), there was an increase to 7% in 2013 and a decrease to 3.4% in 2018. The MOAHLFA Index (M=Men, O=Occupational Dermatitis, A=Atopic Dermatitis, L=Leg Dermatitis, F=Face Dermatitis, A= Age > 40) for the period 2013/14 is characterized by a lower proportion of occupational dermatitis and a higher proportion of face dermatitis. The period 2017/18 is characterized by increases of occupational dermatitis and hand dermatitis, and a decrease of face dermatitis. Painters, personal care workers, and hairdressers were particularly affected. Sensitization in hairdressers and personal care workers (mostly cosmeticians) decreased after the peak in 2013/14, whereas sensitization to MI in painters continued to increase. Conclusions After an unprecedented epidemic of MI allergy, mainly caused by its use in cosmetics, the continuous use of MI in industrial applications, for example, paints, and subsequent sensitization remain a matter of concern.

Der diagnostische Standard zum Nachweis einer bestehenden allergischen Kontaktdermatitis ist der Epikutantest. Die vorliegende Leitlinie richtet sich an Assistenz- und Facharzte der Dermatologie, Allergologie und Arzte weiterer Fachgruppen in Klinik und Praxis, die an der Indikationsstellung oder Durchfuhrung von Epikutantests bei Patienten mit Kontaktekzemen und weiteren Spattypallergien beteiligt sind, sowie Kooperationspartner der Arzteschaft (Fachberufe im Gesundheitswesen, Kostentrager). Die Leitlinie zur Durchfuhrung des Epikutantests mit Kontaktallergenen wurde auf der Basis einer systematischen Literatursuche zu definierten Schlusselfragen evidenzbasiert und im formellen Konsensusverfahren (S3) von Dermatologen unter Einbindung von Padiatern, Arbeitsmedizinern, Assistenzpersonal und Patientenvertretern erstellt. Bezuglich der methodischen und inhaltlichen Arbeit, auf denen die Empfehlungen basieren, wird auf Methodenbericht und Evidenztabellen verwiesen. Die Leitlinie stellt allgemeine Aspekte der Epikutantestung sowie medizinrechtliche Aspekte dar. Es werden Empfehlungen gegeben zur Indikationsstellung, Patientenaufklarung, Auswahl von Testsubstanzen und Kammersystemen, Expositionsort, -dauer und Ablesezeitpunkten, Interpretation von Testreaktionen, endogenen und exogenen Einflussfaktoren, Testung besonderer Personengruppen (Kinder, Schwangere, Immunsupprimierte) sowie Risiken und unerwunschten Nebenwirkungen bei der Durchfuhrung des Epikutantests mit Kontaktallergenen.

Epicutaneous patch testing is the diagnostic standard for the detection of allergic contact dermatitis. The present guidelines are aimed at residents and board-certified physicians in the fields of dermatology and allergology as well as other medical specialties involved in establishing the indication for patch testing and its execution in patients with contact dermatitis and other forms of delayed-type hypersensitivity. The target audience also includes other health care providers and insurance funds. Based on a systematic literature search and a formal consensus process (S3), the guidelines were developed by dermatologists in collaboration with pediatricians, occupational medicine physicians, nursing staff as well as patient representatives. The systematic methodological approach and appraisal of evidence upon which the recommendations are based are outlined in a separate method report that also contains evidence tables. The guidelines address general aspects of patch testing as well as medicolegal issues. The recommendations given relate to topics such as the indication for patch testing, informed patient consent, as well as the choice of test substances, test chambers and test site, duration of exposure, reading times and interpretation of test reactions. Furthermore, recommendations are provided with respect to endogenous and exogenous factors, specific patient groups (children, pregnant women, immunosuppressed individuals) as well as possible risks and adverse events associated with patch testing using contact allergens.

Epicutaneous patch testing is the diagnostic standard for the detection of allergic contact dermatitis. The present guidelines are aimed at residents and board-certified physicians in the fields of dermatology and allergology as well as other medical specialties involved in establishing the indication for patch testing and its execution in patients with contact dermatitis and other forms of delayed-type hypersensitivity. The target audience also includes other health care providers and insurance funds. Based on a systematic literature search and a formal consensus process (S3), the guidelines were developed by dermatologists in collaboration with pediatricians, occupational medicine physicians, nursing staff as well as patient representatives. The systematic methodological approach and appraisal of evidence upon which the recommendations are based are outlined in a separate method report that also contains evidence tables. The guidelines address general aspects of patch testing as well as medicolegal issues. The recommendations given relate to topics such as the indication for patch testing, informed patient consent, as well as the choice of test substances, test chambers and test site, duration of exposure, reading times and interpretation of test reactions. Furthermore, recommendations are provided with respect to endogenous and exogenous factors, specific patient groups (children, pregnant women, immunosuppressed individuals) as well as possible risks and adverse events associated with patch testing using contact allergens. Note: This publication is part 1 of the short version of the S3 guidelines for "Epicutaneous patch testing using contact allergens and drugs" (registry no. 013 - 018; date: March 20, 2019; valid until December 31, 2021). Part 2 of the short version will be published in the next issue. The long version of these guidelines can be accessed at www.awmf.org. The method report is available as online publication (https://www.awmf.org/leitlinien/detail/ll/013-018.html) and contains the evidence tables in its appendix.

Der diagnostische Standard zum Nachweis einer bestehenden allergischen Kontaktdermatitis ist der Epikutantest. Die vorliegende Leitlinie richtet sich an Assistenz- und Facharzte der Dermatologie, Allergologie und Arzte weiterer Fachgruppen in Klinik und Praxis, die an der Indikationsstellung oder Durchfuhrung von Epikutantests bei Patienten mit Kontaktekzemen und weiteren Spattypallergien beteiligt sind, sowie Kooperationspartner der Arzteschaft (Fachberufe im Gesundheitswesen, Kostentrager). Die Leitlinie zur Durchfuhrung des Epikutantests mit Kontaktallergenen wurde auf der Basis einer systematischen Literatursuche zu definierten Schlusselfragen evidenzbasiert und im formellen Konsensusverfahren (S3) von Dermatologen unter Einbindung von Padiatern, Arbeitsmedizinern, Assistenzpersonal und Patientenvertretern erstellt. Bezuglich der methodischen und inhaltlichen Arbeit, auf denen die Empfehlungen basieren, wird auf Methodenbericht und Evidenztabellen verwiesen. Die Leitlinie stellt allgemeine Aspekte der Epikutantestung sowie medizinrechtlicher Aspekte dar. Es werden Empfehlungen gegeben zur Indikationsstellung, Patientenaufklarung, Auswahl von Testsubstanzen und Kammersystemen, Expositionsort, -dauer und Ablesezeitpunkten, Interpretation von Testreaktionen, endogenen und exogenen Einflussfaktoren, Testung besonderer Personengruppen (Kinder, Schwangere, Immunsupprimierte) sowie Risiken und unerwunschten Nebenwirkungen bei der Durchfuhrung des Epikutantests mit Kontaktallergenen.

BACKGROUND Contact urticaria (CU) is an infrequent, mostly occupational disease that may be life-threatening (CU syndrome stage 4). OBJECTIVES To identify the current frequency, elicitors and cofactors of CU. PATIENTS Three cohorts were retrospectively analysed for CU: (a) patients from the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK) database (2000-2014; n = 159 947); (b) patients from an allergy unit (Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Erlangen, 2000-2015; n = 4741); and (c) patients from the Anaphylaxis Registry (2007-2015: 6365 reported cases, including 2473 patients with Ring and Messmer grade III-IV reactions) for severe cases with skin/mucosal manifestations occurring at the workplace vs cases not occurring at the workplace (n = 68 vs n = 1821). RESULTS Four hundred and forty-eight CU patients (0.28%) were diagnosed in the IVDK cohort, and 16 (0.34%) (10 of immunological aetiology, and 6 of non-immunological aetiology) in the Erlangen cohort. The most frequent elicitors in the IVDK cohort were cosmetics, creams, sun protection agents (although these were less frequent in CU patients than in controls without CU; 26.8% vs 35.6%, P

BACKGROUND Contact sensitization in children is increasing. The offending allergens differ depending on patient age and sex. We aimed to determine the sensitization profiles in children (aged 6-12) and adolescents (aged 13-18), to compare these to a control group of adults (aged 60-66), and to evaluate differences in sensitization patterns between working and non-working adolescents. PATIENTS/MATERIALS/METHODS We analyzed Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK) data from 2009 to 2016 using multiple logistic regression analysis. Of the 99 082 patients documented in the IVDK database, 591 children, 2451 adolescents and 12 122 adults were included in further analysis. RESULTS Nickel was the most frequent contact allergen among all age-groups. Children and adolescents showed significantly lower reaction rates to fragrance mix, methyldibromo-glutaronitrile, methylisothiazolinone, and propolis than adults. Positive reactions to sorbitan sesquioleate and mercapto mix among children and to cobalt among adolescents were significantly more frequent than in adults. Working adolescents had more often positive reactions to methyl(chloro)isothiazolinone (skin lesions predominantly on hands) and paraben mix (skin lesions predominantly on feet) when compared to non-working peers. Patch-tested children were more often diagnosed with atopic dermatitis than adults (P

Positive reactions to fragrance mix I (FM I) are frequent in consecutively patch tested patients suspected of having allergic contact dermatitis. However, the FM I test preparations contain 5% of the emulsifier sorbitan sesquioleate (SSO), and it is well known that SSO can cause contact allergic reactions in its own right. Indeed, the available data show that some patients with contact allergy to SSO react to FM I but are not allergic to fragrances. When SSO is not tested, this situation may go unnoticed, a wrong diagnosis of fragrance allergy may be given to the patient, and unjustified advice to avoid fragrances and fragranced products will be given in such cases. To avoid such suboptimal patient care, we postulate that testing with SSO in all patch tested individuals is mandatory. As it is well known that only a minority of FM I-reactive patients will undergo a breakdown test with the ingredients and SSO, testing with SSO in all patients can only be achieved by adding it to the European baseline series. Not testing with SSO may also result in misinterpretation of patch test reactions to Myroxylon pereirae resin and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate in the baseline series, as both (may) contain SSO, and, for the same reason, of reactions to several other hapten test materials.

BACKGROUND: The use of disinfectants is part of the everyday life of people, especially in the medical profession. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the use of disinfectants continues to increase and is of fundamental importance in infection control. OBJECTIVES: To determine the frequency of sensitization and the value of patch testing to didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC) and the alcohols ethanol, 1-propanol, and isopropanol. METHODS: Clinical patch test data of 145 patients with suspected contact allergy to disinfectants were retrospective analysed. RESULTS: Among the 145 patients patch tested with the different alcohols, only one nurse was detected with a possible allergy to 1-propanol. Additional patch testing in 84 patients with DDAC 0.05% resulted in five patients with weakly positive reactions only, without clinical relevance. Patch testing with DDAC 0.03% showed no positive reactions at all on day 3 readings. CONCLUSIONS: DDAC and alcohols are rarely responsible for allergic contact dermatitis. The accused products of the patients should be checked for other allergens and further additives with skin-irritating properties. Individual susceptibility and mishandling of the disinfectants should be considered.

Summary Background The association of atopic dermatitis (AD) and allergic contact dermatitis has been a matter of considerable uncertainty. Study results range from lack of any association to increased sensitization for multiple allergens, but fail to identify consistent allergen associations. Objective We studied a large patch test cohort of patients stratified by their atopic skin diathesis using the Erlangen Atopy Score (EAS), independent of active skin disease. Methods Retrospective multi‐center data analysis from five departments of dermatology in Germany with 4,509 patients. Patients were grouped as “no atopic skin diathesis” (n = 2,165) and “atopic skin diathesis” (n = 1,743), according to EAS. Results Significantly more individuals with atopic skin diathesis showed at least one positive patch test reaction to the baseline series compared to individuals without atopic skin diathesis (49.1 % vs. 38.3 %). In logistic regression analyses, atopic skin diathesis was associated with a significantly higher risk of sensitization to methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (OR 2.383) and methylisothiazolinone (OR 1.891), thiuram mix (OR 1.614), as well as nickel (OR 1.530), cobalt (OR 1.683), and chromium (OR 2.089). Conclusions Atopic skin diathesis proved to be the most important intrinsic risk factor for contact sensitization to few, specific allergens. Past or present AD was a less relevant variable.

BACKGROUND Studies suggest that patch testing with formaldehyde releasers (FRs) gives significant additional information to formaldehyde 1% aq. and should be considered for addition to the European baseline series (EBS). It is not known if this is also true for formaldehyde 2% aq. OBJECTIVES To determine the frequency of sensitization to formaldehyde 2% aq. and co-reactivity with FRs. To establish whether there is justification for including FRs in the EBS. MATERIALS AND METHODS A 4-year, multi-center retrospective analysis of patients with positive patch test reactions to formaldehyde 2% aq. and five FRs. RESULTS A maximum of 15 067 patients were tested to formaldehyde 2% aq. and at least one FR. The percentage of isolated reactions to FR, without co-reactivity to, formaldehyde 2% aq. for each FR were: 46.8% for quarternium-15 1% pet.; 67.4% imidazolidinyl urea 2% pet.; 64% diazolidinyl urea 2% pet.; 83.3% 1,3-dimethylol-5, 5-dimethyl hydantoin (DMDM) hydantoin 2% pet. and 96.3% 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol 0.5% pet. This demonstrates that co-reactivity varies between FRs and formaldehyde, from being virtually non-existent in 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol 0.5% pet. (Cohen's kappa: 0, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.02 to 0.02)], to only weak concordance for quaternium-15 [Cohen's kappa: 0.22, 95%CI 0.16 to 0.28)], where Cohen's kappa value of 1 would indicate full concordance. CONCLUSIONS Formaldehyde 2% aq. is an inadequate screen for contact allergy to the formaldehyde releasers, which should be considered for inclusion in any series dependant on the frequency of reactions to and relevance of each individual allergen.