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, revealing age-related differences in allergen sensitivity and patch test positivity. Of 464 patients, 74% showed positive reactions, with adults (89%) more reactive than geriatrics (11%). Adults frequently reacted to potassium dichromate, nickel sulphate, and para-phenylenediamine (PPD), while geriatrics showed sensitivity to PPD, potassium dichromate, and neomycin sulphate. The lower reactivity in geriatrics is attributed to immunosenescence and reduced exposure to industrial allergens, with a higher sensitivity to medicament-related allergens. The study emphasizes the need for age-specific allergen panels and extended patch test readings to improve diagnostic accuracy in older adults.

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