National survey of patch testing in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland: what proportion of the population is and should be tested?

BACKGROUND

An initial study of patch testing practices across Wales, United Kingdom, showed wide variation in practice against a standardized set of guidelines and best practice recommendations.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate (i) current patch testing practice on a national level in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (ROI), (ii) compliance with the current published guidelines, and (iii) the proportion of the catchment population tested by patch testing centres.

METHODS

In consultation with the British Association of Dermatologists and British Society for Cutaneous Allergy, proformas addressing clinical guidelines and best practice recommendations were sent to all dermatology units in the United Kingdom and ROI.

RESULTS

Ninety one of 325 centres (28%) performed patch testing. The optimum proportion of annual tests was not being achieved in the United Kingdom and ROI. The range tested varied between 1:1200 and 1:1600.

CONCLUSIONS

Most centres achieved a high level of best practice outcomes. Shortcomings were found in the recording of minimum data, benchmarking, and attendance at meetings. We suggest that the findings of this study should be used as evidence to help improve services locally.