Patch testing with rubber series in Europe: a critical review and recommendation. (28th December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Warburton, Katharine L.; Uter, Wolfgang; Geier, Johannes; Spiewak, Radoslaw; Mahler, Vera; Crépy, Marie‐Noëlle; Schuttelaar, Marie Louise; Bauer, Andrea; Wilkinson, Mark
• Is Part Of: Contact dermatitis. Volume 76:Number 4(2017)
• Page Start: 195
• Page End: 203
• Publication Date: 2016-12-28
• Subjects: clinical epidemiology -- contact allergy -- patch testing -- rubber additives -- standardization; Contact dermatitis -- Periodicals; 616.51
• DOI: 10.1111/cod.12736
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0105-1873

Abstract

Summary: Background: Rubber additives constitute an important group of contact allergens, particularly in certain occupations. Objectives: To collect information regarding the current practice of using a 'rubber series' in Europe, and discuss this against the background of evidence concerning the prevalence of allergy in order to derive a recommendation for a 'European rubber series'. Methods: The following were performed: (i) a survey targeting all members of the COST action 'StanDerm' consortium, (ii) analysis of rubber contact allergy data in the database of the European Surveillance System on Contact Allergies, and (iii) a literature review. Results: Information from 13 countries was available, from one or several departments of dermatology, and occasionally occupational health. Apart from some substances tested only in single departments, a broad overlap regarding important allergens was evident, but considerable variation existed between departments. Conclusions: An up‐to‐date 'European rubber series' is recommended, with the exclusion of substances only of historical concern. A 'supplementary rubber series' containing allergens of less proven importance, requiring further analysis, is recommended for departments specializing in occupational contact allergy. These should be continually updated as new evidence emerges.