Role of Open Application Test in Nickel Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Abstract

In order to determine the substance that cause allergy in contact dermatitis, patch test (PT) is indicated as a standard method. As some cosmetic company eg. hairdye, suggested open application test method for prediction on the allergic reaction. We study the significant of open application test in nickel allergy compare with patch test. 106 nickel allergy subjects confirmed by patch test between January 2002 – December 2005 were collected and re-tested with open application test. This study revealed only 18.5% of nickel allergy (positive PT) were positive to open application test.