Stratum corneum profiles of inflammatory mediators in patch test reactions to common contact allergens and sodium lauryl sulfate

Abstract

Background

Recent studies demonstrated allergen-specific differences in the gene-expression of inflammatory mediators in patch-tested skin.

Objectives

To determine levels of various inflammatory mediators in the stratum corneum (SC) after patch testing with common contact allergens and the skin irritant sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).

Methods

Twenty-seven individuals with previous positive patch test to nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) or p-phenylenediamine (PPD) were retested and furthermore patch tested with SLS and petrolatum, with petrolatum serving as patch test controls. At 72 hours, test sites were clinically graded and SC samples collected by adhesive tapes.

Results

The levels of eighteen out of thirty-two quantified mediators differed significantly from that of control patches for at least one of the tested substances. SLS and MCI/MI induced the largest number of immunomediators. The levels of IL-16 were significantly higher in patch test reactions to all allergens than in the controls, while no significant difference was detected for SLS. Furthermore, a strong negative correlation was found between clinical severity and levels of IL-1α.

Conclusion

Cytokine profiles in the SC of patch tested skin did not show a distinct allergen-specific pattern. However, MCI/MI induced a larger and broader immune response than the other allergens, perhaps due to its irritant potency. The levels of IL-16 were significantly increased in patch test reactions to all allergens but not to SLS, and thus, may help to differentiate between allergic contact dermatitis and irritant contact dermatitis.

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