Background:
In patients hypersensitive to balsam of Peru, there is a statistically significant overrepresentation of simultaneous contact allergic reactions to a resin based on phenol and formaldehyde (PFR). The purpose of this study was to show that a nonrelevant contact allergy to balsam of Peru may indicate a relevant contact allergy to a PFR.
Methods:
In a patient hypersensitive to balsam of Peru in a routine patch test series, additional testing was performed with various PFRs, PFR sensitizers, and patient-supplied paints. The presence of PFR sensitizers was investigated by high-performance liquid chromatography in a PFR-containing paint to which the patient was contact allergic.
Results:
The patient was contact allergic to PFR, several PFR sensitizers, and a PFR-containing paint. The investigated PFR sensitizers were shown in both the paint and the PFR as being a constituent of the paint.
Conclusions:
A nonrelevant contact allergy to balsam of Peru can indicate a relevant contact allergy to PFR.
