Low yield for extended reading of patch tests with topical corticosteroids

• Published in: Dermatitis Vol. 16; no. 3; p. 124
• Main Authors: Davis, Mark D P, Richardson, Donna M, Farmer, Sara A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.09.2005
• Subjects: Administration, Topical; Adrenal Cortex Hormones - administration & dosage; Adrenal Cortex Hormones - adverse effects; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact - diagnosis; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact - etiology; Drug Eruptions - diagnosis; Drug Eruptions - etiology; Humans; Patch Tests - methods; Predictive Value of Tests; Retrospective Studies; Time Factors
• ISSN: 1710-3568
• DOI: 10.1097/01206501-200509000-00006

On the basis of reports that up to 30% of patch test reactions are missed if an extended reading is not performed, we required that patients who were being patch tested with the corticosteroid series return for a reading at least 1 week after placement of the allergens. To report our institutional experience with extended readings (day 7 or beyond) of patch test reactions to the corticosteroid series. We retrospectively reviewed patch test reactions to corticosteroids since extended readings were implemented (April 2001 to June 2004). A total of 135 patients were patch tested with 1,656 corticosteroid allergens. On day 5, five patients had five positive patch test reactions; by the time of the extended reading, no new reactions had developed in these patients. Of the patients with no reactions on day 5, two had a positive result at the extended reading: each had a relevant reaction to budesonide 0.1%, one on day 7 and the other on day 9. Only 2 reactions (to 1,656 corticosteroids) became apparent at the extended reading. Extended readings were of limited value in our experience.