Contact Allergy in Children in Europe: A Proposal for a Paediatric European Baseline Series

Abstract

Background: Contact allergy is common in children, but no paediatric baseline series (pEBS) exists in Europe, despite recommendations in several countries. Objectives: To collect and compare patch testing data from European centres to propose a common pEBS, possibly adapted by age group. Materials and Methods: Data from 13 centres in 12 European countries were aggregated, covering 1816 children (1099 girls, 60.5%), aged 0–16 years, tested with the adult EBS (aEBS) and other frequent allergens between 2018 and 2022. Allergen selection followed adult criteria, with a stricter cut-off for inclusion, requiring at least 1% positive reactions (lower 95% CI) in children. Results: A total of 17 allergens from the aEBS caused positive reactions in ≥ 1% of children (lower 95% CI). Common allergens included metals, fragrances, and preservatives. Tixocortol-21-pivalate was included despite its lower frequency due to its difficult-to-suspect nature. Additional frequent allergens were hydroperoxides of limonene and linalool, Amerchol L-101, and sorbitan sesquioleate. In total, 18 allergens were identified as potentially qualifying for a pEBS, with a further 7 as recommended additions. Conclusion: Results from patch testing children across europe highlight a common set of frequent allergens, which should be considered for a pEBS.