Analysis of Patch Testing for Allergic Contact Dermatitis in Adults Versus Geriatrics: A 7-Year Retrospective Analysis of 342 Positive Patch Test Cases

February 2026 in “ Indian Journal of Dermatology ”

TN Kumar, N. Srilakshmi, S. G. Chethana, Garehatty Rudrappa Kanthraj

allergic contact dermatitis patch testing potassium dichromate nickel sulphate para-phenylenediamine neomycin sulphate immunosenescence allergen sensitivity medicament-related allergens PPD

TLDR Adults are more reactive to allergens than older adults, who are more sensitive to medication-related allergens.

This study analyzed 342 positive patch test cases of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) in adults and geriatric patients over 7 years. It found that adults had a higher patch test positivity rate (89%) compared to geriatric patients (11%). Common allergens for adults included potassium dichromate, nickel sulphate, and para-phenylenediamine (PPD), while geriatrics were more sensitive to PPD, potassium dichromate, and neomycin sulphate. The study highlights age-related differences in allergen sensitivity, with geriatrics showing lower reactivity due to immunosenescence and chronic illnesses. The findings emphasize the need for customized testing strategies for accurate diagnosis and treatment, particularly in older adults, who may have delayed hypersensitivity responses and increased sensitization to therapeutic agents.

View this study on journals.lww.com →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Similar Research

5 / 1000+ results

research Updates from the British Association of Dermatologists 91st Annual Meeting, 5-7 July 2011, London, UK

1 citations , July 2012 in “British Journal of Dermatology”

New treatments and management strategies for skin conditions like melanoma and Spitz naevi were discussed at the dermatologists' meeting.

research Allergens and Irritants: Comprehensive Overview of Contact and Occupational Dermatitis

October 2001 in “WORLD SCIENTIFIC eBooks”

Many substances, including chemicals and metals, can cause skin reactions; careful handling and identification of allergens are crucial to prevent dermatitis.

Positive Lymphocyte Transformation Test in a Patient with Allergic Contact Dermatitis of the Scalp After Short-Term Use of Topical Minoxidil Solution

research Positive Lymphocyte Transformation Test in a Patient with Allergic Contact Dermatitis of the Scalp After Short-Term Use of Topical Minoxidil Solution

38 citations , June 2005 in “Contact Dermatitis”

Patient had scalp allergy from minoxidil; test helped identify cause and suggest alternative treatments.

research Association of Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia and Contact Allergens in Everyday Skincare Products in Hispanic Females: A Case-Control Study

2 citations , September 2021 in “Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia”

Increased sunscreen use may be linked to frontal fibrosing alopecia in Hispanic females.

research General Dermatology: Comprehensive Overview of Dermatological Conditions

January 2017 in “Springer eBooks”

The document explains various skin conditions and their treatments.

Analysis of Patch Testing for Allergic Contact Dermatitis in Adults Versus Geriatrics: A 7-Year Retrospective Analysis of 342 Positive Patch Test Cases

Related Community Posts Join

community I am putting my hair loss treatment on hold until my mental health is better.

community Evidenced Based Meta-Analyses and Systemic Reviews of Androgenic Alopecia and Treatments

community Massive Shedding and Itchy Scalp (Fin 1mg 4x/week, Dut 0.5mg 3x/week, Minoxidil 1ml 2x/day)—Seeking Advice

community What are your unpopular opinions on hair loss and its treatments?

community 9 months on Fin - no progress , should I get on Dutasteride?