ABSTRACT 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.
Wolff et al. (Fri,) studied this question.