The prevalence and morbidity of sensitization to fragrance mix I in the general population.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

The prevalence of sensitization to fragrance mix (FM) I and Myroxylon pereirae (MP, balsam of Peru) has decreased in recent years among Danish women with dermatitis.

OBJECTIVES:

This study investigated whether the decrease could be confirmed among women in the general population. Furthermore, it addressed the morbidity of FM I sensitization.

METHODS:

In 1990, 1998 and 2006, 4299 individuals aged 18-69 years (18-41 years only in 1998) completed a premailed questionnaire and were patch tested to FM I and MP. Data were analysed by logistic regression analyses and associations were expressed as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS:

The prevalence of FM I and MP sensitization followed an inverted V-pattern among women aged 18-41 years (i.e. an increase from 1990 to 1998, followed by a decrease from 1998 to 2006). Logistic regression analyses showed that 'medical consultation due to cosmetic dermatitis' (OR 3.37, 95% CI 1.83-6.20) and 'cosmetic dermatitis within the past 12 months' (OR 3.53, CI 2.02-6.17) were significantly associated with sensitization to FM I.

CONCLUSIONS:

In line with trends observed in Danish patients with dermatitis, our results supported a recent decrease in the prevalence of FM I and MP sensitization in Denmark. The study also showed that fragrance sensitization was associated with self-reported cosmetic dermatitis and use of health care related to cosmetic dermatitis.

• Authors: J P Thyssen, A Linneberg, T Menné, N H Nielsen, J D Johansen
• Journal: The British journal of dermatology (Br J Dermatol) Vol. 161 Issue 1 Pg. 95-101 (Jul 2009) ISSN: 1365-2133 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 19438476 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Balsams
• Perfume
• Plant Preparations
• Peruvian balsam

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Aged
• Balsams (adverse effects)
• Denmark (epidemiology)
• Dermatitis, Allergic Contact (epidemiology, etiology)
• Female
• Humans
• Logistic Models
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Myroxylon (adverse effects)
• Patch Tests
• Perfume (adverse effects)
• Plant Preparations (adverse effects)
• Prevalence
• Young Adult