Sensitization to cockroach allergens evaluated by skin tests in children with atopic dermatitis

INTRODUCTION: Cockroach and house dust mites (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Dp and farinae, Df) are the most often implicated aeroallergens in severe 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 15 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 aeroallergens (77 p. 100), 61 children had a positive reaction to cockroach (42 p. 100) 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 some flare-ups of atopic dermatitis. Eviction of cockroach and house dust mite should be proposed for children with a positive patch test to cockroach.