Prevalence of cockroach allergens positive patch test in children with atopic dermatitis

Introduction. Cockroach and house dust miles (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinu s, Dp and farinae, Df) are the most often implicated aeroallergens in sever e asthma, hay fever and conjunctivitis. Cockroach allergy is still unknown in atopic dermatitis. Patients and method. 146 children with atopic dermatitis-aged 6 months to 1 5 years- have been patch tested with the European standard series and some aeroallergens. We have studied the sensitisation to cockroach allergens and compared to Dp and Df. Results. 113 children reacted positively at least to one of the 3 aeroaller gens (77 p. 100), 61 children had a positive reaction to cockroach (42 p. 1 00) and 29 simultaneously to the 3 allergens. Discussion. Delayed hypersensitivity to house dust mites in young children with atopic dermatitis suggests early epicutaneous sensitization due to an altered epidermal barrier. For us, cockroach could also be implicated in so me flare-ups of atopic dermatitis. Eviction of cochroach and house dust mit e should be proposed for children with a positive patch test to cockroach.