Allergic contact dermatitis is common and can be prevented. The relationship between thresholds for patch tests and the repeated open application test (ROAT) is unclear. It would be desirable if patch test and ROAT data from already sensitized individuals could be used in prevention.
The National Allergy Research Centre, Department of Dermato-Allergology, University of Copenhagen, Gentofte Hospital, Gentofte, Denmark. loarfi01@geh.regionh.dk