Abstract: Background:
Allergic contact Dermatitis® (ACD) in older adults (OA) represents a significant health burden, but few studies examine the prevalence and characteristics of contact allergy and ACD in this population.
Objective:
To compare positive and clinically relevant patch test results in OA versus younger adults (YA) and children.
Methods:
Retrospective analysis of patch test results obtained in OA (≥65 years), YA (19–64 years), and children (≤18 years) by the North American Contact Dermatitis® Group, 2009 to 2020.
Results:
Of 28,177 patients patch tested, 5366 (19.0%) were OA. OA were more likely to have a final primary diagnosis of ACD as compared with YA (50.8% vs 49.2%, P = 0.035) and children (44.6%, P < 0.0001). The primary site of Dermatitis® also differed by age group, with OA having a higher proportion of Dermatitis® affecting the trunk, scalp, anogenital region, and “under clothing,” and a lower proportion of Dermatitis® affecting the face, lips, and feet.
Limitations:
Retrospective design, lack of follow-up, and referral population.
Conclusion:
OA were as likely and were statistically even more likely to have a final primary diagnosis of ACD compared with YA and children. Anatomic site of Dermatitis® also differed by age group. This underscores the need for patch testing in OA when ACD is suspected.
Supplementary Material
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