The Value of Patch Testing With Stoma Care Products Among Patients With an Ostomy

BACKGROUND: Peristomal skin reactions due to irritant exposure are a common complication of ostomies, whereas contact allergy to stoma care products seems rare. However, knowledge is limited and predominantly based on a few case reports. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the prevalence of contact allergy to stoma care products and selected contact allergens. Furthermore, reactions were evaluated in relation to demographic and concomitant dermatitis. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of patch test results and clinical data was performed among 98 ostomy patients patch-tested with their own stoma care products and selected contact allergens between 1992 and 2024 at the Dept. of Dermatology and Allergy Centre, Odense University Hospital, Denmark. RESULTS: Seven of 98 patch-tested patients had contact allergy to stoma care products, primarily to ostomy paste (n = 3). Further, four of 97 patients had a concomitant clinically relevant sensitization to fragrances and preservatives. The prevalence of positive patch test sensitizations did not increase throughout the study period, although approximately fivefold as many patients were patch-tested in 2018-2024 compared to 1992-2005. CONCLUSION: Contact allergy to stoma care products was rare. Despite an increase in the number of patients patch-tested over a 32-year period, no increase in the prevalence of contact allergy was observed.