Results of patch testing with the textile colour and finish tray

Background

Textile dermatitis results from exposure to a variety of agents, including dyes and fabric finishes. Patch testing with a specialized series of allergens is often used for diagnosis.

Objective

To examine the results of patch testing with the textile components on a standard screening tray, and to compare them with the results of testing with an exclusive collection of textile allergens.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of 41 patients with possible work-related dermatitis who were patch tested to a screening (includes textile finish and dye mix) and a textile series from 2002-2009. Demographic and clinical data were abstracted from the chart and basic descriptive analysis was performed.

Results

Seven of the 41 patients had positive reactions to textile related allergens on the screening or textile series and five were thought to be work-related. Four patients who were patch test positive with the textile series were also positive to relevant allergens on the screening series. Two patients with work-related textile dermatitis were patch test positive to the textile series but negative to the screening series. One case related to fabric finishes and one to the dyes. In an additional work-related case, there was a positive reaction to Disperse Blue Dye 106/124 mix on the screening series, with no positive reactions on the textile series.

Conclusions

Clinically relevant work-related allergic contact dermatitis to textile allergens may be missed if only a screening series is used.