Profession-related patch testing in geriatric care - Recommendations of the study group "profession-related test series" of the German Contact Allergy Group [Berufsspezifische epikutantestung in der altenpflege: Empfehlungen der arbeitsgruppe "berufs-testreihen" der Deutschen Kontaktallergie-Gruppe]

Abstract

Since August 2003 there is a well-established professional training for geriatric nurses. Due to the high share of skin-incriminating activities this profession is marked by a rather high risk of profession-related skin damages. The large spectrum of possible contact allergies - based on latest studies and a collection of clinical experience, gathered by members of the (study group "profession-related test series" of the) German Contact Allergy Group (DKG) - is the reason for recommending tests in geriatric care. Compared to other professions in the health sector (e.g., nurses), especially people who work in the outpatient geriatric care have skin contact to a variety of external agents due to a broad range of cleaning and hygiene products of the elderly. This results in a high risk of developing - primarily or secondarily - an allergic contact eczema, e.g., against scents. For differential diagnosis of a contact allergy, initially the following tests, according to the individual anamnesis, seem to be useful in geriatric care: DKG standard test series, contents of external agents, preservatives, categorization of the scents' mixture (for positive reactions), further olfactory substances, rubber chemicals and disinfectants. Due to the individually varying exposition, additional patch tests with hygiene products used in the job are often essential. Based on the individual anamnesis these profession-based test recommendations offer a quick orientation in the differential diagnosis of the allergic contact eczema. Knowing the range of allergens can improve the basis for specific prevention and consequently for specific secondary prevention against a BK 5101. © 2005 Dustri-Verlag Dr. Karl Feistle.