Relevance of Socioeconomic Status in Contact Dermatitis: Insights from a Retrospective Study

Abstract: Background: The relevance of socioeconomic status (SES) on contact dermatitis (CD) occurrence has never been addressed. Objectives: We aimed to assess the SES profile of patients for whom patch-testing was requested and to correlate it with their contact sensitizations and diagnosis. Methods: This retrospective study included all patients patch-tested at our allergy unit between 2016 and 2021. The following were recorded: sex, age, referring physicians, atopy, body sites involved, conclusive diagnosis, patch-test reactions and SES, defined through a deprivation index. Results: Among the 1625 subjects included (69.7% females), 45.4% had at least one positive patch-test reaction, and 56.9% received a conclusive diagnosis of CD, including both allergic and irritant forms, of which 14% were occupational. CD occurrence, occupational versus nonoccupational CD, anatomical sites or referring physician were not significantly related to SES, while multiple positive reactions to patch-tests were more common among the highest SES group. Positive reactions to Myroxylon Pereirae or fragrance mix II were less recorded among the highest SES subjects. Conclusions: CD, either allergic CD or irritant CD, and skin sensitization appear to be transversal phenomena, not closely related to SES. Multiple sensitization, as well as sensitization to specific allergens may be affected by socioeconomic factors.