Changes in Product Use and Quality of Life After Patch Testing in Children With Allergic Contact Dermatitis: A Follow-up Survey

Abstract

Background: Patch testing is the standard to diagnose allergic contact dermatitis (ACD).

Objective: This study assessed the value of patch testing for product changes and quality of life in children with ACD.

Methods: In this cross-sectional survey, we used a questionnaire to follow up with families of ACD patients about changes since patch testing and counseling preferences. Eligible participants were 18 years or younger during expanded series or personalized patch tests at the Washington University School of Medicine from 2007 to 2020.

Results: Of the 43 enrolled participants, most were positive for multiple allergens (63%) and changed personal products after patch testing (71%). Only 26% of the families consistently read product labels before patch testing, compared with 66% after. Patients saw a mean relative reduction of 49% in severity of rash (8.2-4.2 of 10), 46% in interference with activities (5.7-3.1), and 51% in self-consciousness (7.0-3.4) since patch testing. Families gave favorable feedback for counseling on products to avoid (9.4 of 10 average rating of usefulness), product recommendations (8.5 of 10), and chemical names (7.9 of 10).

Conclusions: Patch testing can lead to meaningful improvements in quality of life for most children with ACD. Counseling related to positive patch test results should include discussion of specific products to use and avoid.