ESSCA results with the baseline series, 2009-2012: rubber allergens

Summary 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.