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The prevalence of allergic contact sensitization in a general population in Tromsø, Norway.

AbstractOBJECTIVES: This study investigated the prevalence of contact sensitization in a general adult population and the relationship between the history of metal dermatitis and sensitization to metal allergens. STUDY DESIGN: A cross-sectional population study using patch tests and a questionnaire was conducted among adults in Tromsø, Northern Norway. METHODS: A random sample of 830 participants aged 18-75 years were invited to participate in the patch testing and completed a 1-page self-administered questionnaire. Of the adults, 531 (64%) were actually TRUE tested (using a standardized, ready-to-apply patch test system) and completed the self-administered questionnaire about ear piercing, metal reactions, skin reactions to different allergens, atopic dermatitis, eczema, cooking equipment and diet. RESULTS: The study showed that nickel (19.2%; women 31.1% and men 5.0%), fragrance mix (3.4%) and cobalt (1.7%) were the most prevalent allergens causing contact sensitization. For all other allergens, less than 1.1% tested positive. Eighty-four (45.2%) subjects with a positive history of metal dermatitis had negative patch tests. CONCLUSIONS: Contact sensitization was found frequently in this general adult population, especially to nickel and perfumes with a predominance among females. An eczematous reaction caused by cheap earrings seemed to be the best indicator for metal sensitivity.
AuthorsLars Kåre Dotterud (Affiliation: Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Northern Norway, Tromsø, Norway. larskd at start.no)
JournalInternational journal of circumpolar health (Int J Circumpolar Health) Vol. 66 Issue 4 Pg. 328-34 (Sep 2007) ISSN: 1239-9736 Finland
PMID18018846 (Publication Type: Journal Article)
Chemical References
  • Metals
  • Perfume
Topics
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Dermatitis, Contact (epidemiology)
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity (diagnosis, epidemiology)
  • Male
  • Metals (immunology)
  • Middle Aged
  • Norway (epidemiology)
  • Patch Tests
  • Perfume
  • Questionnaires