Patch testing with textile allergens: the mayo clinic experience.

Recognition of allergic contact dermatitis attributed to textile dyes and resins is steadily increasing. This study aims to review the results of patch testing with a textile series at our institution and to compare with previously published reports. We performed a retrospective review of results in patients who underwent patch testing using a series of textile dyes and resins from January 1, 2000, through September 30, 2011. A total of 671 patients (mean age, 56.5 years; female, 65.9%) were patch tested with the textile series (42 dyes and resins). These patients were also generally tested with the standard patch test series (n = 620). Of the patients, 219 (32.6%) demonstrated allergic reaction to 1 or more textile dyes and resins, and 71 (10.6%) manifested irritant reactions. The most frequent allergens were disperse blue 106 1% (8.3%), disperse blue 124 1% (8.0%), and melamine formaldehyde 7% (8.0%). Of patients tested with the standard series, 36 (5.8%) showed a positive reaction to the traditional textile screening allergen p-phenylenediamine 1%. Supplementing the standard series with the textile series increased detection of textile allergies. In patients suspected of textile allergy, addition of the textile series is necessary for appropriate diagnosis.