[Contact allergy in children].

Although the prevalence of contact allergy in children is largely unknown, the most frequent contact allergens in childhood are nickel, fragrances, p-phenylenediamine, thimerosal, preservatives and components of skin care and hygiene products. Children with persistent eczema or otherwise suspected contact allergy should be patch tested. For children, the same preparations of allergens and test techniques can be used as for adults. Patch tests should be done with allergens suggested by history and with a shortened standard series, at best with small Finn-Chambers that are attached for 1 day only. Positive readings need to be assessed with regard to clinical relevance. In children, the treatment of allergic contact dermatitis follows the same principles as in adults. Topical corticosteroids are agents of well proven efficiency whereas non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should not be applied to the skin because there is of a risk of contact sensitization. For reasons of prophylaxis it is important to avoid potential contact allergens in childhood.