Sensitization to textile dyes in Spain: Epidemiological situation (2019–2022)

Abstract Background Current frequency and features for positivity to textile dye mix (TDM) in Spain are unknown. Objectives To study the frequency, clinical features and simultaneous positivity between TDM, para‐phenylenediamine (PPD) and specific disperse dyes. Materials and Methods We analysed all consecutive patients patch‐tested with TDM from the Spanish Contact Dermatitis Registry (REIDAC), from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2022. Within this group, we studied all selected patients patch‐tested with a textile dye series. Results Out of 6128 patients analysed, 3.3% were positive to the TDM and in 34% of them, the sensitization was considered currently relevant. TDM positivity was associated with working as a hairdresser/beautician and scalp, neck/trunk and arm/forearm dermatitis. From TDM‐positive patients, 57% were positive to PPD. One hundred and sixty‐four patients were patch‐tested with the textile dye series. Disperse Orange 3 was the most frequent positive dye (16%). One of every six cases positive to any dye from the textile dye series would have been missed if patch‐tested with the TDM alone. Conclusions Positivity to TDM is common in Spain and often associated with PPD sensitization. TDM is a valuable marker of disperse dyes allergy that should be part of the Spanish and European standard series.